| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09915307B2 |
Brake
A brake for machine and method of using the brake is disclosed. The brake may comprise first and second brake linings configured to be frictionally engageable with a rail, a first biasing member configured to urge the first brake lining to engage the rail, and a first actuator configured to move the first brake lining (38) to disengage the rail when the first actuator is energized. The brake may be configured to be mounted on a machine, floor or the like. |
| US09915301B2 |
Magnetically actuated mechanical diode
A one-way diode includes a first plate including a coil and cams distributed about an axis, a second plate axially facing the cams and including pockets and a second coil, and struts, each strut supported in one of the pockets for pivoting axially relative to the cams in response to an electromagnetic field induced by current in the coil and the second coil. |
| US09915300B2 |
Synchronized wedge clutch with detent
A wedge clutch, including: an outer carrier; a first clutch plate non-rotatably connected to the outer carrier; a wedge clutch plate; a hub radially inward of the outer carrier; an engagement assembly including a pin partially disposed within the hub and in contact with the wedge clutch plate; and an actuator. For a first synchronization stage for closing the wedge clutch: the actuator is arranged to clamp the first clutch plate and the wedge clutch plate; and a first portion of the pin extending radially outward beyond an outer circumference of the hub is arranged to transmit torque between the hub and the carrier. For a second synchronization stage for closing the wedge clutch: the hub or the wedge clutch plate are arranged to circumferentially displace with respect to each other; and the wedge clutch plate is arranged to displace the pin radially inward. |
| US09915298B2 |
Electromagnetic pulse disconnect system and methods
Methods and systems are provided for operating an electromagnetic pulse disconnect assembly for selectively engaging two rotating components of a vehicle drivetrain. A disconnect assembly is needed that is not powered by vacuum diverted from an engine of the vehicle, as modern engines are being developed to reduce vacuum production and remove vacuum lines for powering peripheral devices such as disconnects. An electromagnetic pulse disconnect assembly is provided that operates via pulses of electrical current and includes an electromagnetic coil for translating a clutch ring assembly and a latching ring assembly to selectively couple two rotating components. |
| US09915291B2 |
Torque transmission shaft having universal joint yoke and method of manufacturing the same
A rod-shaped element having an outer diameter, which is the same as an outer diameter of a completed rod part, has one axial end portion and the other axial end portion to which a base end portion of a bifurcated yoke is fixed. The one axial end portion is subject to plastic working for diametrically deforming an outer periphery of the one axial end portion. Thereby, the outer periphery of the one axial end portion is formed with a male spline part having a groove bottom diameter smaller than an outer diameter of a rod part and having a tooth tip diameter larger than the outer diameter of the rod part. |
| US09915289B2 |
Sliding parts
By randomly arranging dimples provided on a sealing face, a sliding characteristic is improved in a wide range of a bearing characteristic number on the sealing face. A pair of sliding parts in which a plurality of dimples is arranged on at least one of sealing faces that relatively slide on each other is characterized in that each of the plurality of dimples is provided independently from the other dimples, and arranged in such a manner that the plurality of dimples having different opening diameters is randomly distributed. |
| US09915288B2 |
Bearing assembly
A bearing assembly includes two rolling-element bearings having inner and outer rings and rolling elements between the rings, the rolling-element bearings being configured to be axially preloaded, at least one of the inner and outer rings including an axially adjustable flange ring forming a flange for the rolling elements, the flange ring having a first section axially slidably mounted on one of the bearing rings and a second section axially adjacent to the first section, the second section including a thread, and the thread being configured to threadably engage a counterthread of a separate component at a location axially spaced from the bearing ring. |
| US09915283B2 |
Fixture
A fixture has an adsorbing assembly and a clamping assembly. The adsorbing assembly has a flexible disc, a cover, and a handle. The flexible disc has a pulling pole. The cover has a positioning pipe and two protruding portions. The positioning pipe is formed centrally on the cover. The two protruding portions are located at two sides of the positioning pipe. The handle has two fastening portions respectively fastened with the two protruding portions. The clamping assembly has a first clamping portion, an adjusting component, a pivot clamping portion and a second clamping portion. The first clamping portion has a cylinder. The adjusting component is mounted in the first clamping portion. The pivot clamping portion is connected to the cylinder of the first clamping portion. The second clamping portion is combined with the first clamping portion to position the pivot clamping portion. |
| US09915279B2 |
Pull-up bolt assembly
In combination, a manway cover and a manway flange having one or more bolt opening(s) and a pull-up bolt assembly adapted to be used for supporting a hinge component to the manway cover, the manway flange, or both, where the pull-up bolt assembly having a pull-up bolt member, a nut component, a tapered member, and an expandable friction member, where one or more structures selected from a thread, a ridge and/or a groove disposed on an outside surface of the expandable friction member and the one or more bolt opening(s) having an inside surface adapted for mating with the corresponding one or more structures of the expandable friction member whereby, when the pull-up bolt assembly is engaged within the one or more bolt opening(s), the one or more structures aligns with the corresponding inside surface of the one or more bolt opening(s). |
| US09915277B2 |
Quick-threaded rod locking device and method
A device for securing threaded rod can include a housing and a threaded rod locking mechanism. The housing can include a rod locking body with a tapered bore, and a housing extension extending from an end of the rod locking body. The threaded rod locking mechanism can include two plunger pieces, each of which are movable within the tapered bore and include a respective threaded inner surface and a respective sloped outer surface that can engage the tapered bore. The threaded rod locking mechanism can also include a spring disposed within the tapered bore to bias the plunger pieces towards a narrow end of the tapered bore. The plunger pieces can be urged towards each other and towards an axis of the tapered bore by contact between the outer surfaces of the plunger pieces and an internal surface of the tapered bore. |
| US09915272B2 |
Turbomachine blade and relative production method
A turbomachine blade of the type having a metal lower coupling root, a metal upper coupling head, and a metal airfoil-shaped oblong member designed to connect the coupling root rigidly to the coupling head; the airfoil-shaped oblong member having a substantially airfoil-shaped main plate-like element connected to the coupling root and to the coupling head, and which is divided into: a lower connecting fin cantilevered from and formed in one piece with the coupling root; an upper connecting fin cantilevered from and formed in one piece with the coupling head; and a center plate-like body, which is located between the lower and upper connecting fins, is shaped/designed to form an extension of the lower and upper connecting fins, and is butt-welded to, to form one piece with, the lower and upper connecting fins. |
| US09915271B2 |
Blower assembly for a vehicle
A blower assembly includes a housing having a scrolled wall, a motor having an output shaft extending within the housing, an impeller positioned within the housing and mounted to the output shaft for creating an airflow along an airflow path within the housing, an airflow outlet, and a scroll cut-off. The scroll cut-off may rotate about its central or center axis and forms a substantially continuous surface with the scrolled wall and with the airflow outlet, along the airflow path, in a first position and defines an air gap. The blower assembly also includes an actuator for rotating the scroll cut-off from the first position to a second position wherein the air gap is increased for reducing the airflow. |
| US09915270B2 |
Turbocharger compressor with an elliptical diffuser wall
A turbocharger (10) having a compressor housing (15) and a bearing housing (17). The compressor housing (15) including an elliptical shaped wall (16) extending between an air inlet (11) and a volute (13) formed by the compressor housing (15). The bearing housing (17) forms a flat bearing housing wall (14) opposing the compressor wall (16) wherein the compressor wall (16) and bearing housing wall (14) form an elliptical diffuser (12) between the air inlet (11) and the volute (13). |
| US09915267B2 |
Fan inlet recirculation guide vanes
A fan structure comprising a base, a fan inlet funnel coupled to the base, the fan inlet funnel having an inner surface for conducting air flow into a fan inlet and an outer surface and a plurality of external ribs coupled to the outer surface of the fan inlet funnel. |
| US09915263B2 |
Gear pump with deflector in fluid intake for diverting fluid towards voids in housing
In accordance with one embodiment, the gear pump comprises a first gear meshed with a second gear as well as a housing, in which the gears are supported. The housing includes a first void, which at least partly adjoins a first side surface of the first gear, and a second void, which at least partly adjoins a second side surface of the first gear. The gear pump further comprises a fluid intake channel configured to direct fluid towards the gears, wherein at least one deflector is arranged within the fluid intake such that an incident fluid flow is diverted towards the first void as well as to the second void. |
| US09915261B2 |
Substrate treating apparatus, drive assembly, and drive member controlling method
Provided is a substrate treating apparatus. The substrate treating apparatus includes: a transfer chamber conveying a substrate; a process chamber disposed adjacent to the transfer chamber and performing a treating process o the substrate; and a drive assembly supplying a power by which a component of the transfer chamber or the process chamber operates, wherein the drive assembly includes: a cylinder connected to pipes; a piston disposed to be movable inside the cylinder and connected to the component by a drive shaft; and a pipe control unit automatically adjusting a moving speed of the piston. |
| US09915259B2 |
Apparatus for controlling electric pump
In an apparatus for controlling an electric pump supplying operating oil to a driving system or the like of a vehicle, control satisfying both responsiveness and reduction in power consumption is performed even in a case in which an oil temperature sensor and a pump characteristic are abnormal. After starting of the electric pump, feedback control is performed in which a rotation number Nm of a driving motor is settled in a target rotation number Na set to satisfy predetermined performance. After satisfying a predetermined condition in which the motor rotation number Nm is in a stable state, motor current Im is settled in an indicated current Ip within a range of being equal to or less than a current limit value IL while the motor rotation number Nm is maintained equal to or greater than a required rotation number Np corresponding to the indicated current Ip. |
| US09915256B2 |
Magnetic anti-gas lock rod pump
A well pump has a standing valve seat with a standing valve mounted in a lower end of a barrel. A plunger is carried within the barrel for axial stoking movement. A travelling seat with a travelling valve are mounted in a lower end of the plunger. The travelling valve has a head that lands on the travelling valve seat while the travelling valve is in a closed position. The travelling valve has a stem extending downward from the head through a hole in the travelling seat. The stem is a permanent magnet. Another permanent magnet is carried by the barrel below the travelling magnet. The polarities of the magnets are configured to interact and cause the travelling valve to lift relative to the travelling seat to an open position as the plunger nears a bottom of a stroke. |
| US09915255B2 |
Compressor
A compressor (10) for compressing air for a compressed air system of a motor vehicle has a cylinder housing (14) and a cylinder head (16) connected thereto. A compressor piston is moveable in oscillation up and down in a cylinder in the cylinder housing (14). A lamella (34, 36) is received in a depression (38) in an underside (30) of the cylinder head (16) facing the compressor piston. The delivery rate of the compressor (10) can be regulated by closing or opening a control channel (60, 60′) in the cylinder head (16) via the lamella. A bearing end (44) of the lamella (34, 36) is hinged in a pivotably guided manner on a bearing contour (54) of this depression (38). As a result, a separate bearing journal for pivotable mounting of the lamella (34, 36) on the cylinder head (16) may be omitted. |
| US09915253B2 |
Air compressor
An improved air compressor includes a cylinder fitted with a piston body and an air storage container. The cylinder and the air storage container are detachably assembled to define an air chamber. A metal seat with a through hole is provided on top of the cylinder. A valve plug is spring-biased against the metal seat. The air storage container is provided with an elongated pressure indicator, which includes a transparent tube defining therein a first bore and a second bore, between which a tapered annular surface is formed. When the air pressure within the air storage container exceeds a predetermined pressure set for the air compressor, the elongated pressure indicator allows excess air to flow into the first bore of the transparent tube and pass through the tapered annular surface to be released to the ambient environment, so that objects can be prevented from damages due to excessive inflations. |
| US09915250B2 |
Hydraulic drive system for cryogenic pump
A drive system for a cryogenic pump is provided including a spool housing having a plurality of valves disposed therein about a pump axis and a tappet housing including a plurality of tappet bores, each tappet bore in communication with a respective one of the plurality of valves. A collection cavity collects hydraulic fluid from the tappet bores. A pump flange includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. An inlet manifold directs hydraulic fluid received through the fluid inlet to each of the plurality of valves. An outlet manifold directs hydraulic fluid from each of the valves and the collection cavity to the fluid outlet. |
| US09915245B2 |
Reinforced pitch bearing of a wind turbine
A reinforced pitch bearing of a wind turbine having a first reinforcement plate and a second reinforcement plate is provided. The pitch bearing includes an outer bearing ring and an inner bearing ring, whereby both bearing rings are arranged coaxially to each other, thus comprising a common axis of symmetry. The first reinforcement plate is arranged at a first axial end of the pitch and the second reinforcement plate is arranged at a second axial end of the pitch bearing. The reinforcement plates are arranged substantially parallel to each other and the pitch bearing includes further means for reinforcement arranged in between the first reinforcement plate and the second reinforcement plate. The invention also relates to a wind turbine having at least one rotor blade and at least one pitch bearing, pivotably connecting the rotor with a hub of the wind turbine. |
| US09915240B2 |
Method and system for engine auto-ignition detection and mitigation
A system and method for detecting and mitigating automatic ignition in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine. The method includes providing a first sensor for sensing and determining a crank angle of a crankshaft of the engine. A second sensor is provided for detecting a change in an engine vibration frequency caused by Auto Ignition (AI). The engine vibration signal of the second sensor is processed into a knock intensity signal. The knock intensity signal is indicative of the cylinder pressure and is acquired when the crank angle is between a first predetermined crank angle and a second predetermined crank angle. At least one characteristic of the knock intensity signal is determined and the at least one characteristic of the knock intensity signal is compared to at least one predetermined characteristic threshold. If the at least one characteristic of the knock intensity signal is determined to exceed the at least one predetermined characteristic threshold, then at least one auto ignition mitigating action is performed to mitigate the auto ignition event. |
| US09915236B1 |
Fuel system component mounting assembly with retention member
A mounting assembly for a fuel system component with an attachment bracket includes an upper isolation member; an upper isolation member retainer which captures the upper isolation member axially between the upper isolation member and the attachment bracket; a lower isolation member; a lower isolation member retainer which captures the lower isolation member axially between the lower isolation member the attachment bracket; and a retention member extending from the lower isolation member and having a retention member first end and a retention member second end such that the retention member first end is fixed to the lower isolation member retainer and such that the upper isolation member retainer is captured axially between the attachment bracket and the retention member second end. |
| US09915230B2 |
Engine system
An engine system is provided that includes a cylinder, an exhaust flow part, a purifying system, a water injector for injecting supercritical/subcritical water into the cylinder, a water supply passage connected with the water injector and for supplying the water, a first temperature increasing device disposed at a position of the exhaust flow part and for increasing a water temperature, and a second temperature increasing device including a part of the exhaust flow part and a part of the water supply passage, and for increasing a water temperature. The first device increases the water temperature when an exhaust gas temperature passing through the position of the exhaust flow part exceeds a reference temperature. The second device increases the water temperature when an exhaust gas temperature passing through the part of the exhaust flow part is above a water temperature passing the part of the water supply passage. |
| US09915227B2 |
Discharge system of a separated twin-flow turbojet for an aircraft, corresponding turbojet and associated design method
A discharge system of a separated twin-flow turbojet for an aircraft, supported by a suspension mast, is disclosed. The system includes a main nozzle delimited by an annular cowl with a slot of annular shape defining upstream and downstream portions of the cowl and which is traversed by the suspension mast. The downstream portion of the cowl of the main nozzle includes a first part extending downstream from the upstream portion of the cowl to a trailing edge of the main nozzle, on either side of the suspension mast along two predefined angular sectors; and a second part formed from an internal contour of the slot and having a trailing edge with a diameter smaller than that of the trailing edge associated with the first part of the downstream portion of the cowl. Connecting walls laterally connect the first and second parts of the downstream portion. |
| US09915225B2 |
Propulsion system arrangement for turbofan gas turbine engine
A method of designing an engine according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, designing an engine and a nacelle assembly together in an interactive process, the engine including a turbine section configured to drive a fan section and a compressor section. The step of designing the compressor section includes the step of designing a first compressor and a second compressor, with an overall pressure ratio being greater than or equal to about 35. The step of designing the nacelle assembly includes the step of designing the fan section to include a fan nacelle arranged at least partially about a fan, with the fan section having a fan pressure ratio of less than about 1.7. The step of designing the fan section includes configuring the fan section to deliver a portion of air into the compressor section, and a portion of air into a bypass duct, and with a bypass ratio equal to or greater than about 5. |
| US09915222B2 |
Diesel piston with semi-hemispherical crown
A diesel engine includes a cylinder block having a cylinder cavity defined therein. A cylinder head is coupled to the cylinder block and includes a lower semi-hemispherical surface defined thereon that defines an upper boundary of a combustion chamber. The engine includes a piston slideably disposed within the cylinder cavity that includes a piston crown having an upper surface configured to define a first portion of a lower boundary of the combustion chamber. The upper surface of the piston crown includes an axi-symmetric semi-hemispherical shape configured to correspond to the lower semi-hemispherical surface of the cylinder head. |
| US09915221B2 |
System and method for engine combustion
A combustion system for use with one or more cylinder bores of an internal combustion engine includes at least one cylinder head defining first and second intake ports in fluid communication with the one or more cylinder bores. A flap is adjustably connected to the at least one cylinder head. The flap includes a first flap portion cooperating with the first intake port extending from an arm and a second flap portion cooperating with the second intake port extending from the arm and disposed adjacent the first flap portion. A controller in electrical communication with an actuator monitors the condition of the engine and actuates the flap to position the first and second flap portions between first and second positions to create a first combustion condition and a second combustion condition. |
| US09915215B2 |
Fuel injector for pulsed injections and system and method thereof
A fuel injection system is provided. The fuel injection system can have a fuel injector having a check valve with a plurality of fuel output ports, and a fuel injector body with an outer surface and an inner surface. The fuel injector body defines an inner volume to accommodate bi-directional movement of the check valve. The fuel injector body includes at least a first row of injection ports and a second row of injection ports extending from the inner surface to the outer surface. The check valve is bi-directionally controllable in the inner volume, during a single cycle, to output from the fuel injector body any one of a plurality of predefined pulse injection patterns. |
| US09915214B2 |
Method for controlling a speed surge of an internal combustion engine of a moving vehicle during a gearbox ratio change
Method for controlling speed surge of an internal combustion engine of a moving vehicle during a ratio change of a manual gearbox, the vehicle including an engine control unit with a transient progressive torque reduction phase activated when the driver requests zero torque or when the foot is raised, the engine control unit: detects the raised foot and activates the transient progressive torque reduction phase; records engine speed and determines the gearbox ratio engaged when the foot is raised; determines, a maximum permissible engine speed (Nmax) which is greater than the recorded speed (Nlvp) of the raised foot, in accordance with the engine speed recorded and the engaged gearbox ratio; monitors the current speed (Nc) so that if Nc>Nmax, a stop is initiated with immediate effect of the transient progressive torque reduction phase, an if Nc≦Nmax, the transient progressive torque reduction phase is maintained. |
| US09915205B2 |
Substitution device for aircraft engine
A substitution device for replacing a turbojet type of aircraft engine, with a nacelle comprising protective covers, and a support mast having two engine mounts, each of said protective covers being mounted to pivot between an open position and a closed position, said substitution device comprising a body, two anchors attaching to the engine mounts of the engine support mast, and bearing portions adapted to receive support portions belonging to the protective covers.A method for installing such a substitution device in a nacelle, which makes it possible to close the engine covers and authorize the movement of the aircraft. |
| US09915200B2 |
System and method for controlling the combustion process in a gas turbine operating with exhaust gas recirculation
A system includes a fuel control system configured to control a fuel flow to one or more combustors and an oxidant control system configured to control an oxidant flow to each combustor of the one or more combustors, wherein the oxidant flow is configured to at least partially react with the fuel flow within the one or more combustors to form an exhaust gas flow. The system also includes an exhaust gas system configured to direct a recirculation flow of the exhaust gas flow to each combustor of the one or more combustors; and a controller coupled to the fuel control system, the oxidant control system, and the exhaust gas system. The controller is configured to independently control a fuel-to-oxidant ratio and an exhaust gas-to-oxidant ratio. The FOR is the fuel flow divided by the oxidant flow, and the EGOR is the recirculation flow divided by the oxidant flow. |
| US09915196B2 |
Control arrangement of an exhaust-gas turbocharger
A control arrangement (1) of an exhaust-gas turbocharger (2), having a bearing bushing (3); having a control shaft (4) which is connected at a first end (5) to a connecting lever (6) and which is guided in the bearing bushing (3); and having a connecting piece (7) which is arranged on the connecting lever (6). The connecting piece (7) is arranged on a lever surface (8), which faces toward the bearing bushing (3), of the connecting lever (6). |
| US09915193B2 |
Method and control device for operating an internal combustion engine
A method for operating an internal combustion engine (10) that has at least one cylinder row (11a, 11b) with first and second exhaust-gas turbochargers (13a, 13b; 14a, 14b). Charge air is provided by the first exhaust-gas turbocharger (13a, 13b) in single-charger operation, but is provided by the first and second exhaust-gas turbocharger (13a, 13b; 14a, 14b) in two-charger operation. To switch from single-charger to two-charger operation above a load threshold value of the internal combustion engine (10), when a speed of the internal combustion engine (10) reaches or overshoots a threshold value, a charge pressure is increased to build up a torque reserve and a charge pressure reserve and to maintain a driver demand torque. When the charge pressure reaches or overshoots a threshold value, a switch is made from single-charger operation to two-charger operation, and subsequently, the torque reserve and the charge pressure reserve are eliminated. |
| US09915191B2 |
Air intake system for internal combustion engine
An intake manifold is provided that controls swirl on entry to a combustion chamber. Each intake manifold includes a fin or rib portion positioned to reduce or eliminate swirl induced by the configuration of the intake manifold, particularly when used in a large engine having a left bank and a right bank of combustion chambers. By controlling swirl induced by the intake manifold, swirl consistency is improved between engine cylinders and between the left bank and the right bank, improving the consistency of power output and reducing emissions, particularly particulate emissions, also called smoke. |
| US09915178B2 |
Online heurisitc algorithm for combined cooling heating and power plant optimization
A method of real-time optimization for a Combined Cooling, Heating and Power system, including determining a first operation sequence of a plurality of chillers and at least one thermal energy storage tank in the system over a time period (410) and determining a second operation sequence of the plurality of chillers and at least one thermal energy storage tank in the system over the time period by using the first operation sequence as input to a greedy algorithm (420). |
| US09915173B2 |
Bearing support for a hot section of a turboshaft engine, and an associated turboshaft engine
A support, for example for a turboshaft engine, or for at least one bearing for a hot section of a turboshaft engine. The support includes at least a central hub incorporating an outer bearing seat for directly receiving the bearing, an annular casing segment around the central hub, and a plurality of radial arms connecting the central hub to the casing segment. The radial arms are inclined in an axial direction and in a tangential direction and are integrated as a single piece with the central hub and with the annular casing segment. |
| US09915172B2 |
Turbocharger with bearing piloted compressor wheel
A turbocharger is provided that includes a turbine, a compressor and a bearing housing disposed and connected between the turbine and the compressor. A shaft is rotatably disposed within the bearing housing and extending into the turbine and the compressor. A bearing arrangement is disposed between the shaft and the bearing housing and includes a inner bearing race element and an outer bearing race element. The compressor wheel includes a hub having a collar portion with a bore therein for receiving an end of the shaft. An end portion of the inner bearing race element is arranged to engage an outer circumferential surface of the collar portion. |
| US09915170B2 |
Cooling passages for a mid-turbine frame
A spoke for a mid-turbine frame on a gas turbine engine includes a cylindrical portion. A flange is attached to the cylindrical portion. At least one gusset extends between the cylindrical portion and the flange. At least one gusset extends to a perimeter of the flange. |
| US09915167B2 |
Detection of deficient sensors in a gas turbine system
Methods and systems for determining that a sensor, such as a pressure sensor, that provides feedback on one or more conditions of a gas turbine is deficient are provided. The amplitude of measurements from the sensor may be monitored in different frequency ranges in order to detect certain abnormal conditions of the gas turbine that require attention by the control system in one frequency range, and also, concurrently and/or separately, detect a sensor deficiency in another frequency range prior to actual failure of the sensor, at which time the failure may otherwise be noticeable in the first frequency range. This permits better detection of deficient sensors during operation of the gas turbine. |
| US09915166B2 |
Gas turbine and method for operating the gas turbine
A gas turbine includes an intake tract and a compressor having a compressor flow channel. The compressor further includes an inlet guide vane row positioned in the compressor flow channel having inlet guide vanes that can be adjusted. The gas turbine has an icing sensor unit having at least one sensor arranged between a first compressor blade row and a first compressor guide vane row. The first compressor blade row is thereby arranged in the compressor flow channel directly downstream of the inlet guide vane row, and the first compressor guide vane row is arranged directly downstream of the first compressor blade row. A method detects an imminent icing of the compressor, and the compressor is safeguarded therefrom such that at least inlet guide vanes of the inlet guide vane row are adjusted such that the acceleration of an intake air mass flow is reduced. |
| US09915163B2 |
Cam-follower active clearance control
A blade outer air seal (BOAS) assembly is provided. The BOAS assembly may comprise an outer case, a first support arm, a second support arm, a control rod, a blade outer air seal (BOAS), and a unison ring. The unison ring may be located radially inward of the outer case and in mechanical communication with the control rod. The BOAS may be configured to expand or contract in response to a rotation of the control rod. The first support arm may be fixed to the outer case. The second support arm may be fixed to the outer case. The control rod may be coupled to the first support arm and the second support arm, wherein the control rod may be configured to rotate about a control rod axis. The BOAS may comprise a first segment and a second segment. |
| US09915162B2 |
Flexible feather seal for blade outer air seal gas turbine engine rapid response clearance control system
An active clearance control system for a gas turbine engine includes an intersegment seal engaged with each pair of a multiple of air seal segments. |
| US09915156B2 |
Device and method for cooling electric device having modular stators
An annular stator assembly includes a plurality of stator segments. Each stator segment includes a plurality of laminates having magnetic permeable properties; a plurality of thermally conductive laminates positioned between the permeable laminates; and a cooling pipe extending through the laminates for transferring heat from the laminates to coolant flowing through the cooling pipe. The stator segments are constructed independently. Coils are wound on each segment. The stator segments with the wound coils are subsequently arranged to form the annular stator assembly. |
| US09915151B2 |
CMC airfoil with cooling channels
An airfoil may be provided that includes a CMC body and a support piece. The CMC body has an inner surface that defines a chamber within the CMC body. The support piece may be positioned within the chamber of the CMC body. The support piece comprises a channel in a surface of the support piece, the surface being in contact with the inner surface of the CMC body. The channel and the inner surface of the CMC body define a passageway for a cooling fluid. The passageway may wind about the circumference of the CMC body and extend along the span of the airfoil. Outlets may be positioned through the CMC body allowing fluid communication between the passageway and the outer surface of the CMC body. |
| US09915150B2 |
Turbine blade
A turbine blade for a turbomachine having a turbine blade wall and a fluid channel having inlet channel section on the end region leading to the cold side, outlet channel section on the end region leading to the hot side, and central channel section therebetween having a circular cross-section constant along the length. The turbine blade forms an acute angle with the surface of the turbine blade wall over which hot gas flows, and has an intermediate channel section between the inlet and central channel sections, the intermediate channel section having a larger cross-sectional area than the central channel section. The central channel section connects to the intermediate channel section forming a shoulder surface formed on a wall region of the fluid channel and, on the opposing wall region, the intermediate and central channel sections merge with one another in a linear manner with a reduced shoulder height. |
| US09915149B2 |
System and method for a fluidic barrier on the low pressure side of a fan blade
A turbofan engine has a fan portion in fluid communication with a core stream and a bypass stream of air separated by splitters disposed both upstream and downstream of the fan portion. A fluid passage is defined between the splitters. The turbofan engine has a plurality of high pressure fluid jets originating from the low pressure side of the fan blades, the jets restricting the migration of the core stream into the bypass stream through the fluid passage. |
| US09915143B2 |
Downhole tool for determining flow velocity using measurements from a transducer and a plurality of electrodes
A downhole tool may include a tool housing extending along a longitudinal axis and having a circumference which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the tool housing being adapted to be lowered into the inside of the borehole or borehole casing. The downhole tool may include a longitudinal transducer for transmitting a probing signal longitudinally from an end part of the tool housing into a fluid flowing in said borehole or borehole casing and for receiving a reflected signal reflected from reflective entrained surfaces in the fluid flowing along a longitudinal direction towards the end part of the tool housing. The downhole tool may include a plurality of electrodes arranged spaced apart around the longitudinal axis in the periphery of the downhole tool so that the fluid flows between the electrodes and a borehole wall or borehole casing wall. |
| US09915140B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for in situ monitoring of cement fluid compositions and setting processes thereof
Optical analysis systems, methods, and apparatuses for analyzing fluids may be useful for in situ monitoring fluids that relate to cementing operations. For example, a method may include containing a cement fluid composition in a flow path comprising a wellbore; and optically interacting the cement fluid composition with an integrated computational element, thereby generating an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the cement fluid composition, the integrated computational element being coupled to a tool. |
| US09915138B2 |
Drill bit with hydraulically adjustable axial pad for controlling torsional fluctuations
A drill bit that includes one or more cutters on a surface thereon configured to penetrate into a formation. The drill bit includes at least one pad at the surface, an actuation device configured to supply a fluid under pressure to the pad to extend the pad from the surface. The drill bit also includes a relief device configured to drain fluid supplied to the pad to reduce the pressure on the at least one pad when the force applied on the at least one pad exceeds a selected limit. |
| US09915134B2 |
Integrated pump and compressor and method of producing multiphase well fluid downhole and at surface
An integrated system is disclosed to handle production of multiphase fluid consisting of oil, gas and water. The production stream is first separated into two streams: a liquid dominated stream (GVF<5% for example) and a gas dominated stream (GVF>95% for example). The separation can be done through shrouds, cylindrical cyclonic, gravity, in-line or the like separation techniques. The two streams are then routed separately to pumps which pump dissimilar fluids, such as a liquid pump and a gas compressor, and subsequently recombined. Both pumps are driven by a single motor shaft which includes an internal passageway associated with one of the pumps for reception of the fluid from the other pump, thereby providing better cooling and greater overall efficiency of all systems associated therewith. A method for providing artificial lift or pressure boosting of multiphase fluid is also disclosed. |
| US09915132B2 |
Well fracturing manifold apparatus
A fracturing system can include a fracturing manifold coupled to a plurality of fracturing trees. The fracturing manifold may include adjustment joints that enable adjustment of the length of the fracturing manifold. The fracturing manifold can also include pivot joints that allow angular displacement of portions of the fracturing manifold with respect to other portions. The adjustment and pivot joints can accommodate spacing and elevation differences between the fracturing trees. |
| US09915130B2 |
Method for assessing the performance of a drill bit configuration, and for comparing the performance of different drill bit configurations for drilling similar rock formations
There is disclosed herein a method for assessing the drilling performance of a drill bit configuration used to drill at least a portion of a wellbore in a formation, comprising: determining a value of at least one drill bit performance parameter at points along the wellbore, at least including at multiple points along an interval constituting at least part of the portion drilled using the drill bit configuration; determining rock characteristics for the interval; determining the drilling performance for said drill bit configuration in the interval based on the values for the drill bit performance parameter; and assessing the effectiveness of the drill bit configuration for drilling the interval based on the determined drilling performance and the determined rock characteristics. Also disclosed are related methods for comparing the performance of at least two different drill bit configurations; of designing a drill bit configuration for drilling at least part of a wellbore; for selecting a drill bit design for drilling at least part of a wellbore; and of well planning for drilling wells in a well field. |
| US09915129B2 |
Dual method subsea chemical delivery and pressure boosting
A modular subsea chemical injection system, comprising a power and communications module, a power and communications umbilical terminator, a power and communications module, a fluid storage module comprising a plurality of fluid storage bays adapted to selectively receive a corresponding plurality of high and/or low flow fluid storage units, a pump module comprising a plurality of pump bays adapted to selectively receive a corresponding plurality of high fluid flow and/or low fluid flow pumps, and a fluid distribution unit in fluid communication with a pump module fluid port can be disposed on a seafloor adjacent to a well site and used to selectively provide low and/or high flow fluid delivery by use of subsea storage and pressure boosting for low flow fluid needs and low flow fluid needs. |
| US09915128B2 |
Machines, systems, computer-implemented methods, and computer program products to test and certify oil and gas equipment
Embodiments of machines, systems, computer-implemented methods, and computer program products certify oil and gas well equipment. Embodiments identify a selected well equipment device, a device test specification, and testing sequences to be performed by a corresponding testing apparatus. Embodiments select a testing sequence responsive to the selected device. Embodiments control the testing apparatus for the selected testing sequence so that the corresponding testing apparatus performs the sequence responsive to the device test specification. Embodiments generate testing data for the selected testing sequence and link the testing data for the selected testing sequence to the device identifier for the device so that a certificate can be generated. Embodiments generate a certificate for the selected device responsive to the testing sequences having been performed upon the selected device and link the certificate for the selected device to the device identifier so that the certificate can be readily recalled. |
| US09915126B2 |
High pressure circulating shoe track with redundant pressure isolation feature
A dual barrier system withstands pressure differentials well above those of the check valves in a float shoe used to allow circulation of a bottom hole assembly on the way to a desired depth. The bottom hole assembly can have screens and an internal wash pipe that pushes a sleeve to hold open a lower flapper for running in. The wash pipe also holds open an upper flapper that has opposed orientation to facilitate circulation when running in. Once on location an annulus packer closes off the producing zones where the screens are located from a lower zone that can have higher pressures. A high pressure packer is set against the shoe track and the wash pipe is retracted through this packer. Retracting the wash pipe allows closure of both flappers. Flow is blocked in opposed directions by the flappers and packer in the shoe track. |
| US09915124B2 |
Piston float equipment
A valve includes a housing having a bore. The valve further includes a piston member movable between a first position permitting fluid passage through the bore and a second position obstructing the bore through the housing. Additionally, the valve includes a biasing member configured to bias the piston member toward the second position. A method of using a valve in a cementing operation is provided. |
| US09915122B2 |
Downhole tools, system and methods of using
Downhole tools, including downhole valves, may actuate via a pressure differential created across a shifting element having one or more pressure surfaces isolated from fluid, and fluid pressure, flowing through the interior flowpath. Embodiment downhole tools of the present disclosure may actuate in response to, among other signals, fluid pressure in the interior flowpath of the tool and fluid pressure communicated to a pressure surface of the shifting sleeve from the exterior of the tool. Certain embodiments may also have an outlet connector whereby fluid pressure from the downhole tool may be communicated to its exterior. Isolation of the shifting element from the interior flowpath may be accomplished using a frangible, shiftable, degradable or other members which may be moved from a closed state to an open state in response to fluid conditions in the interior flowpath. |
| US09915121B2 |
Seal pressure relaxation device prior to release of retrievable packer
A retrievable packer has its sealing system unloaded before the slip system is relaxed by separation of slip cones from slips that flank the seal assembly. The mandrel is cut so that the portion above the cut can be raised to take a cone up and away from collet heads which previously were trapped by the cone. The collet heads are disposed between opposed sloping surfaces so that the retraction of the cone from under the heads allows the residual rubber pressure to force the heads toward the mandrel into the space created by relative movement of the mandrel that took the wedge cone uphole. The heads are at ends of fingers having a radially inward bias to further assist retraction of the heads toward the mandrel. With the heads retracted the sealing element stretches out before slip cones are moved relative to the slips. |
| US09915120B2 |
Seal element
A seal element for sealing a conduit is described. The seal element comprises a frusto conical portion and a first lip extending from an external edge of the frusto conical portion, the lip being adapted to be pivoted into engagement with a conduit surface. In a described embodiment, two seal elements are provided on a plug for sealing a conduit, the seal elements facing in opposite directions to seal from above and below. |
| US09915113B2 |
Well drilling apparatus and method of use
Embodiments provide a well-drilling apparatus and a method of use. |
| US09915112B2 |
Smart shaker room
This disclosure is generally drawn to systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods, related to monitoring a shaker used for separating solids from fluid. Specifically, the disclosed systems, devices, apparatuses, and/or methods relate to controlling an actuated arm to inspect, remove, replace, repair, clean, and/or install screen assemblies based on monitoring the shaker and its screen assemblies. In some examples, a system may include an actuated arm, a monitoring tool, and a controller. The actuated arm may be adjacent a shaker for separating one or more solids from a fluid. The monitoring tool may be coupled to the actuated arm and may monitor a screen assembly in the shaker. The controller may be in electrical communication with the actuated arm and the monitoring tool, and may control the actuated arm based on the monitoring of the screen assembly. |
| US09915103B2 |
Transmission line for wired pipe
A wired pipe system includes a wired pipe segment having a first end and a second end, a first coupler in the first end and a second coupler in the second end and a transmission line disposed in the wired pipe segment between the first and second ends. The transmission line includes a transmission cable that includes an inner conductor and an insulating material disposed about the inner conductor as well as a a wire channel surrounding the insulating material and the inner conductor for at least a portion of a length of the transmission cable. The wire channel and the insulating material are mated together by at least one mating feature. |
| US09915099B2 |
Drill bit for a drilling apparatus
A down-hole drilling apparatus includes a bearing housing defining a longitudinal axis and upper and lower portions. The upper portion of the bearing housing is configured for connection to a drill string, and at least one annular bearing package disposed within the bearing housing. A drill bit is coupled to the bearing housing and rotatable with respect to the longitudinal axis. The drill bit includes a leading body supporting a plurality of cutters thereon for engaging a subterranean rock formation, a shank portion projecting from the leading body, and a mandrel portion engaging the shank portion and defining an inseparable connection therewith. The mandrel portion extends longitudinally into the bearing housing and through the at least one annular bearing package. |
| US09915098B2 |
Systems for forming lateral wellbores
Systems facilitate forming lateral wellbores by optionally eliminating one or more trips downhole. The systems provide for forming a lateral wellbore by enabling the milling of a casing window and/or the drilling of the desired lateral wellbore to a target depth during a single trip down hole. The systems also facilitate improved downhole dynamics control and overall bottom hole assembly functionality. |
| US09915096B2 |
Garage door ladder storage devices and methods thereof
A garage door ladder storage device includes at least one base structure and at least two ladder brackets. The base structure includes a brace and a plurality of garage panel detachable mounting devices connected to the brace. The two ladder brackets are spaced apart and secured to the at least one base structure. Each of the ladder brackets includes at least one first ladder support section and at least one second ladder support section. The first ladder support section is coupled to the base structure and provides a first surface to support a ladder in a first direction. The second ladder support section extends from the first ladder support section and provides a second surface to support the ladder in a second direction. |
| US09915095B2 |
Ladder-supporting gutter clamping system
A clamping system for supporting an extension ladder on a gutter utilizes at least one and, more preferably, a pair of identical, clamp(s) to capture the ladder preventing movement laterally or horizontally away from the gutter. The clamp includes a clamp body with a latch pivotably mounted thereto which is spring biased to the gutter-clamping position. A lock screw may be utilized to prevent the latch from releasing the gutter preventing the ladder from moving. A pair of ears extends from each side of the clamp body and have slots which engage the channels on a forward face of the ladder leg. |
| US09915094B2 |
Roller shutter for opening and closing a doorway
The invention relates to a roller shutter (10, 32, 42, 51) for opening and closing a doorway having a door leaf (11) and side rails (17) for guiding the door leaf (11), and having a coiling device (14) for selectively rolling up the door leaf (11) for opening the doorway and unrolling the door leaf (11) for closing the doorway. For reducing or avoiding the risk of creating a polygon effect and for providing a roller shutter (10, 32, 42, 51) comprising a door leaf having rigid shutter elements with an increased height and/or with the possibility of applying an increased speed for opening and/or closing the door leaf the roller shutter (10, 32, 42, 51) is characterized in that a separate guiding device (21, 33, 43) is provided for guiding the door leaf (11) in the area between the side rail (17) and the coiling device (14), wherein the guiding device (21, 33, 43) is arranged to adjust to an increasing diameter and to a decreasing diameter of the coiling device (14). |
| US09915093B2 |
Security gate
A security gate including an outer gate and an inner gate for selective passage of people and/or pets therethrough. In one example, the security gate includes: an outer frame; an outer gate at least partially disposed within the outer frame; an inner gate disposed within the outer gate, the inner gate comprising an inner frame having at least one recess; a door at least partially disposed within the inner frame; and at least one projection extending from the outer gate and engaging the at least one recess for supporting the inner gate within the outer gate. |
| US09915089B2 |
Method of controlling a sunroof of a parked vehicle
A method of controlling a sunroof of a parked vehicle is provided. The method includes the steps of: monitoring a state of an engine; monitoring a state of the sunroof; monitoring a state of at least one accessory; initiating a timer when the state of the engine changes to an off state, the state of the sunroof is an open state, and the state of the at least one accessory is an off state; and closing the sunroof a period of time after initiation of the timer. The method may further include sensing for precipitation throughout the period of time, and closing the sunroof upon sensing precipitation regardless of whether the period of time has elapsed. The method may further include sensing for an occupant within the vehicle when the period of time has elapsed or when precipitation is sensed, and foregoing the step of closing the sunroof if an occupant is sensed. |
| US09915079B2 |
Variable-rigidity seismic-isolation layer rigidity control mechanism suitable for structural seismic isolation and wind resistance
The present invention discloses a stiffness control mechanism of a variable stiffness earthquake-isolation layer adapted to structural earthquake isolation and wind resistance, which comprises an upper flange plate connected to an upper structure, a lower flange plate connected to a base structure at the bottom, a pin key provided between hollow portions of the upper and lower flange plates, with the pin key movable up and down between the hollow portions of the upper and lower flange plates and the height of the pin key greater than the distance between the upper and lower flange plates, and a control means for fixing the pin key or controlling the pin key to move downward. The stiffness control mechanism of the earthquake-isolation layer of the present invention can automatically change stiffness of the earthquake-isolation layer, both effectively wind resistant and effectively earthquake resistant. |
| US09915078B2 |
Structural yielding fuse
A yielding fuse for use in a brace assembly includes a first body portion configured to be connected at one end to a side of a brace member of the brace assembly, and a second body portion configured to be connected at one end to another side of the brace member of the brace assembly. The first and second body portions are positioned so as to be disposed on opposite sides of an axis defined by the brace member, with each of the first and second body portions further including a base displaced from the axis, a plurality of yielding arms extending from the base towards the axis and at least a first connecting plate rigidly connecting the first body portion to the second body portion. Preferably, a second connecting plate is also provided. |
| US09915076B2 |
Coupling member for scaffoldings
A coupling member includes a hook-shaped coupling part arranged to be hooked into a gripping part of an upright and a locking arrangement switchable between a locking position and a release position. Further, the locking arrangement includes a pivotally attached first clamping part and a wedge-shaped locking part, which is slidable between a locking position and a release position. The wedge-shaped locking part is arranged to push the first clamping part towards the upright and the gripping part by means of wedge action. Moreover, the first clamping part comprises two transversally spaced apart side parts which jointly define a cavity there between. The first clamping part is arranged externally on the hook-shaped coupling part, and is arranged partly within the cavity. Further, each of the side parts includes fastening means for pivotal attachment of the first clamping part to the hook-shaped coupling part. |
| US09915071B2 |
Roof ice diverter
An assembly having a longitudinal webbed base plate, upright webbed diverter (e.g. “V”-shaped) and coupling stabilizer and brace arms that assemble to extend from a roof above typical snow cover depths to protect downstream appliances protruding from the roof from snow/ice slide damage. The base plate and/or stabilizer arm includes surfaces shaped to promote the scoring and shearing of a snow/ice slide prior to the sheared sections of the snow/ice being laterally displaced away from a downstream appliance via the upright diverter. Alternative serrated, saw tooth, pointed, spiked and wedged shear surfaces are formed into the base plate and/or a single or multi-section stabilizer arm. An appliance cover piece can be fitted to the upright diverter and suspended above the downstream appliance. |
| US09915067B2 |
Reinforced board and method of producing thereof
Reinforced boards and/or walls, and methods of producing thereof. In some non-limiting examples, there is provided a reinforced gypsum board and a process for the production thereof. In one example, the reinforced board may include one or more reinforcing elements, e.g., to enhance the rigidity of the board and/or to provide support for the board. |
| US09915066B2 |
Sound absorbing panel and soundproof wall equipment
A sound absorbing panel is provided above an uppermost of soundproof panels arranged in plural stages in a vertical direction and each having a back surface opposite to a sound source side, the back surface being formed to be a sound insulating surface, the sound absorbing panel including: an outer frame body having therein an acoustic space in which a first acoustic material is provided, the outer frame body allowing formation of a partition wall separating a sound source and a surrounding area from each other, the outer frame body having, at a front and back portions thereof, sound transmitting surfaces each having multiple sound through holes allowing transfer of sound between the acoustic space and outside thereof; and a second acoustic material provided above an upper end of the outer frame body such that a peripheral surface of the second acoustic material except for a corner portion is air-permeable. |
| US09915064B1 |
Method and apparatus for reducing propagation of cracks in concrete
An apparatus for reducing propagation of cracks in concrete includes a curved panel. The curved panel includes a convex surface and a concave surface facing away from one another and separated by a thickness. Each of the convex and concave surfaces has a top edge, a bottom edge, a first end, and a second end. Each of the convex and concave surfaces is configured to be arranged in direct contact with the concrete. The curved panel further includes a top surface extending between the top edges of the convex and concave surfaces. The top surface is substantially planar and substantially perpendicular to the convex and concave surfaces. The curved panel further includes a bottom surface extending between the bottom edges of the convex and concave surfaces. The bottom surface is substantially planar and substantially parallel to the top surface. |
| US09915061B1 |
Toilet flange adapter tile
The toilet flange adapter tile is adapted for use with flooring tiles. The toilet flange adapter tile is further adapted for use with toilets. The toilet flange adapter tile is a preformed tile that comprises an aperture that is sized to fit around the floor flange and fixture gasket of a standard plumbing hook up for a toilet. The toilet flange adapter tile further comprises a plurality of scoring lines that allow the toilet flange adapter tile to be readily cut to fit into the master tile pattern the toilet flange adapter tile is being integrated. The toilet flange adapter tile further comprises a plurality of mounting holes that allow the toilet flange adapter tile to be secured to the under flooring during installation. The toilet flange adapter tile is a tile that further comprises an aperture, a plurality of mounting holes; and a plurality of scoring lines. |
| US09915058B2 |
Outlet for a sanitary unit
A fitting (10) for a sanitary unit outlet (5) has a tubular housing (12) having an inlet (14) and an outlet (16), a grid (18) associated with the housing inlet (14) and a one-way valve (20) associated with the housing outlet (16). The housing (12), grid (18) and one-way valve (20) are removable from the sanitary unit outlet (5) as a single entity. |
| US09915053B2 |
Dipper door trip assembly
A dipper door trip assembly includes a dipper, a dipper door pivotally coupled to the dipper, a linkage assembly including a sliding latch bar disposed at least partially in the dipper door, and a latch keeper coupled to the dipper. The latch keeper includes a roller that engages and disengages the latch bar. |
| US09915052B2 |
Manhole cover assembly
A manhole cover assembly includes a manhole cover and a latch assembly. The manhole cover is supportable by a seat of a manhole frame. The latch assembly includes a latch housing fixedly coupled to the manhole cover. A latch plunger is slidably coupled to the latch housing. The latch plunger includes a follower arm. A latch lever is rotatably coupled to the latch housing. The latch lever includes a stop. The latch lever is rotatable relative to the latch housing between a locked position and an unlocked position. The stop is structured to engage the manhole frame when the latch lever is rotated to unlocked position so as to force the manhole cover away from the frame. |
| US09915051B2 |
Mandrel for forming an aggregate pier, and aggregate pier compacting system and method
An aggregate pier compacting system for forming a compacted aggregate pier (AP) at a target location includes a mandrel, a tamper device, and a finishing tamper device. The mandrel includes a casing for housing a drilling shaft (DS). An external vibratory hammer (EVH) repeatedly impacts a hammer element (HE) extending from the DS. The DS transfers the impact to a bore head to form a cavity at the target location. The DS is removed and the casing is filled with aggregate. The tamper device includes a compacting shaft. The EVH impacts a second HE extending from the compacting shaft and transfers the impact to a compaction head to form the compacted AP. The finishing tamper device includes a shaft. The EVH impacts a third HE extending from the shaft and transfers the impact to a finishing head compacting a top layer of the AP to form a finished AP. |
| US09915050B2 |
Apparatus and method for ground improvement
An apparatus and method for ground improvement includes a device having a plurality of tines extending downwardly from a top plate in a manner to achieve displacement of ground material downward and radially outward. The tines may include ridges spaced vertically along an outer surface of the tines. The tines may also be in the form of opposing plates. The device is mechanically driven into the ground to achieve predetermined depths of penetration by the tines/plates. The device is retracted and driven repeatedly to achieve densification. Optionally, voids made by the device can be filled with a flowable media. |
| US09915049B2 |
Cost-efficient armor unit
Armor units for rubble mound structures including breakwaters, revetments, groins, jetties, and the like. Embodiments are appropriate for ocean, river, lake and reservoir structure armoring, to prevent erosion from damaging hydrodynamic forces resulting from waves and water currents, and the like. An embodiment includes a central rectangular section, three “half H-shaped” appendages, optionally, one end frusta, and a flat bottom with two extrusions, nominally smaller than other appendages and frusta. An embodiment is symmetric about two perpendicularly intersecting vertical planes extending through the centroid of the unit. The three half H-shaped members are connected to outer parts of a side defined as the top and the two longitudinal sides of the central section. The three half H-shaped members comprise four-sided frusta that taper from a base at the central rectangular section to four-sided distal ends. For select embodiments, the frusta are generally symmetric. |
| US09915038B2 |
Durable joint seal system with detachable cover plate and rotatable ribs
A system which creates a durable seal between adjacent horizontal panels, including those that may be curved or subject to temperature expansion and contraction or mechanical shear. The durable seal system incorporates plurality of ribs, a flexible member between the cover plate and the ribs and may incorporate a load transfer plate to provide support to the rib from below, and/or cores of differing compressibilities. |
| US09915036B2 |
Stackable mat construction
A stackable mat includes a first industrial mat, a second industrial mat and an internal support structure. The mats each have a plurality of layers or plies of construction materials for forming the upper and lower portions, respectively, of the stacker mat, and have a thickness that provide support for vehicle movement thereover. The internal support structure includes a truss or elongated members for retaining the first and second mats in parallel spaced relation at a distance that is greater than the thickness of the first industrial mat. Preferably, the internal support structure and the second industrial mat or both the first and second industrial mats are configured with sufficient openings to allow water to flow therethrough so that the stacker mat may be placed in wet areas to form a temporary roadway or platform. |
| US09915034B2 |
High bulk tissue product
Products having improved caliper, sheet bulk and absorbency and methods for making those products are described. The method comprises producing a multi-ply product having different emboss patterns on each ply where the emboss patterns are made up of emboss elements having an aspect ratio of from about 1 to about 2. |
| US09915030B2 |
Washing apparatus and method for preparation of cellulose fibers for use in manufacture of biocomposite materials
According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a mechanism and method is provided to clean and remove or separate cellulose fibers from the source fibrous material without stressing and/or damaging the cellulose fibers. The mechanism includes an agitator that directs the washing fluid in a vertical direction into engagement with the fibrous material to effect maximum cleaning of the cellulose from the remainder of the fibrous material without damaging or stressing the cellulose, thereby providing cellulose that can enhance the strength and other beneficial characteristics of a biocomposite material formed using the cellulose. |
| US09915026B2 |
Core-free thermoplastic polyurethane yarn formed with masterbatch and method for manufacturing same
The present invention relates to masterbatches for a TPU yarn and a method for manufacturing a TPU yarn using the same wherein while TPU is not coated onto the surface of a polyester or nylon yarn, unlike the above-mentioned prior arts, the masterbatches are made by compounding the TPU and nano silica, and next, they are compounded with TPU, so that the compounded material is melted and extruded through an extruder for yarn processing, thereby manufacturing a TPU yarn having no core. |
| US09915019B2 |
Laundry treatment apparatus
A laundry treatment apparatus including a cabinet forming an appearance of the apparatus, a drum disposed in the cabinet and having a laundry space therein to for accommodate laundry, a rotating shaft for rotatably supporting the drum in the cabinet, a balancer including a housing fixed to the drum, an accommodation space defined in the housing, a balancing unit movably provided in the accommodation space, and a housing power line provided in the accommodation space to supply electric power to the balancing unit, a shaft through-hole formed through the rotating shaft, a first connecting line disposed in the shaft through-hole and connected to a power source, a second connecting line connected to the housing power line, and a connector for coupling the first connecting line to the second connecting line is disclosed. |
| US09915014B2 |
Flexible second gas barrier with improved fatigue strength and method for manufacturing the same
A flexible second gas barrier for a liquefied gas storage tank which includes a stiffener fabric weaved with two or more kinds of fiber yarn selected from a group consisting of a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, an aramid fiber, and a synthetic fiber. The stiffener fabric is weaved so that a hybrid fiber yarn is made by 2-ply yarning two or more kinds of a single yarn or a twisted yarn of fiber yarn selected from a group consisting of a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, an aramid fiber, or a synthetic fiber, is included in the weft and/or warf so that repeated fatigue resistance, even under cryogenic conditions, is achieved, which ultimately has the effect of solving the problems associated with repeated load increase imposed on the second gas barrier as the thickness of LNGC Foam increases. |
| US09915011B2 |
Low resistivity single crystal silicon carbide wafer
The invention provides a low resistivity silicon carbide single crystal wafer for fabricating semiconductor devices having excellent characteristics. The low resistivity silicon carbide single crystal wafer has a specific volume resistance of 0.001 Ωcm to 0.012 Ωcm and 90% or greater of the entire wafer surface area is covered by an SiC single crystal surface of a roughness (Ra) of 1.0 nm or less. |
| US09915010B2 |
Method for cultivating β-Ga2O3-based single crystal, and β-Ga2O3-based single crystal substrate and method for producing same
Provided is one embodiment which is a method for growing a β-Ga2O3-based single crystal which uses the EFG method and includes raising a Ga2O3 melt inside a crucible up to a die opening via a die slit such that a seed crystal is contacted with the Ga2O3-based melt in the opening of the die with a horizontal position of the seed crystal shifted in a width direction (W) from a center in the width direction (W) of the die, and pulling up the seed crystal contacting the Ga2O3-based melt so as to grown a β-Ga2O3 single crystal. |
| US09915009B2 |
Method for growing beta-Ga2O3-based single crystal, and beta-Ga2O3-based single crystal substrate and method for producing same
Provided is one embodiment which is a method for growing a β-Ga2O3-based single crystal including contacting a flat plate-shaped seed crystal with a Ga2O3-based melt, and pulling up the seed crystal such that a flat plate-shaped β-Ga2O3-based single crystal having a principal surface which intersects a surface is grown without inheriting a crystal information of a vaporized material of the Ga2O3-based melt adhered to the principal surface of the seed crystal, wherein when growing the β-Ga2O3-based single crystal, a shoulder of the β-Ga2O3-based single crystal is widened in a thickness direction (t) thereof. |
| US09915003B2 |
Electrical contact element
An electrical contact element formed of sheet metal having a first region and a second region. Each one of the first and second regions is coated with a coating including a first layer containing a first material having a lower standard electrode potential than the sheet metal material. The coating includes a second layer in the first region which is absent in the second region. The second layer is arranged underneath the first layer and contains a second material that has a lower standard electrode potential than the first material. |
| US09914999B2 |
Oxidized showerhead and process kit parts and methods of using same
Methods and apparatus for processing a substrate are provided herein. In some embodiments, a process chamber includes: a chamber body and a lid assembly defining a processing volume within the process chamber; a substrate support disposed within the processing volume to support a substrate; and a showerhead having a first surface including a plurality of gas distribution holes disposed opposite and parallel to the substrate support, wherein the showerhead is fabricated from aluminum and includes an aluminum oxide coating along the first surface, wherein the aluminum oxide coating has a thickness of about 0.0001 to about 0.002 inches. In some embodiments, the showerhead may further have at least one of a roughness of about 10 to about 300 μ-in Ra, or an emissivity (∈) of about 0.20 to about 0.80. The process chamber may be a thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) chamber. |
| US09914997B2 |
Method for supplying a process with an enriched carrier gas
A method for supplying a process with an enriched carrier gas. A first apparatus and a second apparatus are provided. The first apparatus has a precursor and is configured to bring a carrier gas into contact with the precursor and to enrich the carrier gas with the precursor. The second apparatus has a precursor and is configured to bring a carrier gas into contact with the precursor and to enrich the carrier gas with the precursor. The first apparatus supplies the second apparatus with an enriched carrier gas. The second apparatus supplies the enriched carrier gas for the process. A temperature of the first apparatus is controlled as a function of a quantity of precursor in the second apparatus. |
| US09914993B2 |
Thermal spray powder
Provided is a compact thermal spray powder suitable for forming a ceramic thermal spray coating which is compact and excels in durability. The thermal spray powder disclosed herein includes ceramic particles formed of a ceramic material with a melting point equal to or lower than 2000° C. The thermal spray powder is configured such that the peak top of a main peak is in a range of 10 μm or less in a log differential pore volume distribution obtained by a mercury porosimetry, and when the peak top of a second peak is at a fine pore size less than that of the peak top of the main peak, the ratio (H2/H1) of the height H2 of the second peak to the height H1 of the main peak is 0.05 or less. |
| US09914989B2 |
Soldering process
A process by which molten solder is purified in-situ, making the soldering process more efficient and yielding better results, particularly for lead-free soldering. Lead-free solder becomes practical for use since the temperature for reliable soldering is reduced. A layer of active additive is maintained on the surface of molten solder for scavenging metal oxide from the solder and assimilating metal oxide into a liquid layer. The active additive is an organic liquid having nucleophilic and/or electrophilic groups. As an example, a layer of dimer acid maintained on a wave soldering apparatus scavenges metal oxide from the bath, and assimilates dross that may form on the surface. Scavenging metal oxide cleanses the bath and lowers viscosity of the solder, and PC boards or the like soldered on the wave have reliable solder joints. |
| US09914985B2 |
Laser ablation and processing methods and systems
Systems and methods for ablating or processing a surface using a laser beam are provided. A method includes directing a laser beam at a surface to form a contact area. The method also includes moving the contact area to form a contact curve. The method includes tuning a wavelength and a power of the laser beam to process a material and/or ablate a coating. The wavelength and the power may be further tuned to not damage the surface beneath the coating. Moving the contact area may include forming a second contact curve by superimposing, at a same time, the second contact curve on the contact curve. A system includes a laser and a directing arrangement configured to direct a laser beam from the laser at a surface to form a contact area. A non-transitory processor-readable medium having instructions stored thereon is provided. |
| US09914984B2 |
Composition for epimerization of non-phosphorylated hexose comprising sugar epimerases derived from thermophiles
The present invention relates to a composition for epimerization of a non-phosphorylated hexose, comprising sugar epimerases derived from thermophiles, and a method for preparing a non-phosphorylated hexose epimer using the composition. The sugar epimerases derived from thermophiles according to the present invention can effectively catalyze an epimerization reaction of a non-phosphorylated hexose and can easily produce an epimer form of the non-phosphorylated hexose, in particular a rare sugar hexose, and thus can be usefully utilized in the pharmaceutical and food industry. |
| US09914983B2 |
Apoptosis-inducing agent
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a composition for effectively inducing apoptosis and/or proliferation inhibition in a cell, and a method using the same. An agent for inducing apoptosis that comprises as active ingredients a drug inhibiting GST-π and a drug inhibiting Akt; a medicinal composition comprising the same; a method for treating a disease caused by abnormality in apoptosis using the same, etc. |
| US09914982B2 |
Compositions and methods for detecting hepatitis B virus
Compositions, methods and kits for detecting viral nucleic acids. Targets that can be detected in accordance with the invention include HBV and/or HIV-1 and/or HCV nucleic acids. Particularly described are oligonucleotides that are useful as hybridization probes and amplification primers that facilitate detection of very low levels of HBV nucleic acids. |
| US09914981B2 |
Methods for determining fitness in plants
Means and methods are provided to produce abiotic stress tolerant plants with improved yield based on the specific identification of a DNA methylation signature in the plants out of a population of the plants. The methods involve identification and utilization of epigenetic features of a plant with high energy use efficiency. |
| US09914980B2 |
Primers for the detection and typing of carbapenemase-producing bacterial strains, and detection method and kit
Some pairs of primers are provided, being used for detection of carbapenemase genes and carbapenemase-producing bacterial strains, and a diagnosis method using said set of primers. Furthermore, there is also disclosed, preferably, the use of probes within each amplification reaction, more preferably multiplex PCR, for selective identification and detection of carbapenemase genes from a biological sample. The primers object of this invention may be used for preparing a kit for carbapenemase genes identification and detection, preferably carbapenemases contained in bacterial strains producing said enzymes. |
| US09914968B2 |
Honeycomb tube
A honeycomb tube with a planar frame defining a fluidic path between a first planar surface and a second planar surface. A fluidic interface is located at one end of the planar frame. The fluidic interface has a fluidic inlet and fluidic outlet. The fluidic path further includes a well chamber having an well-substrate with a plurality of wells. The well chamber is arranged in the planar frame between the first or second surface and the well-substrate. The well chamber is in fluidic communication between the pre-amplification chamber and the fluidic outlet. |
| US09914964B2 |
Compounds for use in PCR systems and applications thereof
This disclosure relates to novel compounds for use in various compositions, kits and methods, including, for example, use in polymerase storage buffers and in nucleic acid synthesis or amplification reactions such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods for preparing the novel compounds are also described. |
| US09914961B2 |
Three-dimensional polymer networks with channels situated therein
The disclosure provides three-dimensional crosslinked polymer networks comprising one or more channels extending from the surface and/or near the surface of the network into the interior of the network, arrays comprising the networks, processes for making the networks, and uses of the networks and arrays. |
| US09914957B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for thermal control of droplet detection
A droplet detection system comprises a first channel in fluid communication with a carrier fluid reservoir and a second channel in fluid communication with a sample reservoir. The first channel and second channel can meet at an intersection. The sample reservoir can include a sample or partition thereof. During use, an emulsion comprising one or more droplets can be generated at the intersection. The emulsion flows from the intersection along a detection channel to a collection reservoir. A detection assembly that is coupled to at least a portion of the detection channel is configured to detect a signal from the one or more droplets. An energy providing member can be in thermal communication with at least one of the carrier fluid reservoir, the sample reservoir, the intersection, the detection channel and the detection assembly. The energy providing member is configured to transfer energy to the emulsion. |
| US09914955B2 |
Genetically encoded FRET-based MMP-9 activity biosensor and use thereof
The present invention relates to a genetically encoded FRET-based biosensor to monitor the activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). MMP-9 is an extracellular acting endopeptidase implicated in both physiological and pathological processes. A genetically encoded FRET biosensor anchored in the cellular membrane allows studying the proteolytic activity of MMP-9 with high spatiotemporal resolution at the exact region of MMP-9 action on the cell. Applicability of the biosensor, both in vitro and in vivo in living cells, has been demonstrated by ratiometric analysis of cleavage of the biosensor by a purified auto-activating mutant of MMP-9. |
| US09914951B2 |
Cell culture process
Polypeptides having target levels of C-terminal variants are described. |
| US09914947B2 |
Biological production of organic compounds
Methods of producing ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol are disclosed herein. Ethylene produced by cyanobacteria engineered to express ethylene-forming enzymes may be converted to ethylene oxide by bacteria engineered to express a monooxygenase enzyme. Ethylene oxide may be converted to ethylene glycol by exposure to an acidic solution. The methods may be performed in a bioreactor. |
| US09914946B2 |
Polypeptides having xylanase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to methods for degrading or converting a cellulose-containing material, comprising: treating the cellulose-containing material with an effective amount of a cellulolytic enzyme composition comprising a polypeptide having cellulolytic enhancing activity, and one or more (several) components selected from the group consisting of a CEL7 polypeptide having endoglucanase activity, a CEL12 polypeptide having endoglucanase activity, a CEL45 polypeptide having endoglucanase activity, a CEL7 polypeptide having cellobiohydrolase activity with a cellulose binding domain, and a CEL7 polypeptide having cellobiohydrolase activity without a cellulose binding domain. The present invention also relates to such cellulolytic enzyme compositions. |
| US09914943B2 |
Modified bacteria for the production of bioalcohol
The present invention provides a modified bacterial strain capable of fermenting both hexose and pentose sugars for production of bioalcohol wherein a promoter of pyruvate dehydrogenase operon (PDH) is replaced with a promoter of a gene that is expressed under anaerobic conditions. The present invention further provides a method of obtaining modified bacterial strain capable of fermenting both hexose and pentose sugar for production of bioalcohol. The present invention also provides a method of fermenting lignocellulosic biomass having hexose and pentose sugar using the modified bacteria for production of biomass. |
| US09914940B2 |
Targeted integration into the PPP1R12C locus
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for targeted integration of an exogenous sequence into the human PPP1R12C locus, for example, for expression of a polypeptide of interest. |
| US09914937B2 |
Recombinant measles viruses expressing epitopes of antigens of RNA viruses—use for the preparation of vaccine compositions
The invention relates to a recombinant measles virus expressing a heterologous amino acid sequence derived from an antigen of a determined RNA virus, said recombinant measles virus being capable of eliciting a humoral and/or cellular immune response against measles virus or against said RNA virus or against both measles virus and against said RNA virus. It also relates to the use of said recombinant measles virus for the preparation of immunogenic composition. |
| US09914936B2 |
Nucleic acid silencing sequences
The present invention features compositions and methods for introducing, into cells, nucleic acids whose expression results in chromosomal silencing. The nucleic acids are targeted to specific chromosomal regions where they subsequently reduce the expression of deleterious genes, or cause the death of deleterious cells. Where the nucleic acid sequence is a silencing sequence, it may encode an Xist RNA or other non-coding, silencing RNA. Accordingly, the present invention features, inter alia, nucleic acid constructs that include a transgene (e.g., a silencing sequence encoding an Xist RNA or other non-coding RNA that silences a segment of a chromosome); first and second sequences that direct insertion of the silencing sequence into a targeted chromosome; and, optionally, a selectable marker. |
| US09914930B2 |
FAD3 performance loci and corresponding target site specific binding proteins capable of inducing targeted breaks
A method of gene editing or gene stacking within a FAD3 loci by cleaving, in a site directed manner, a location in a FAD3 gene in a cell, to generate a break in the FAD3 gene and then ligating into the break a nucleic acid molecule associated with one or more traits of interest is disclosed. |
| US09914929B2 |
Generating targeted sequence diversity in fusion proteins
Methods of generating fusion protein variants are provided that comprise introducing sequence diversity at the junction region or regions in the fusion and allows for the generation of variants having a desired activity. Examples include immunoglobulins comprising a domain or polypeptide inserted into, or replacing, a CDR. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding a fusion protein and comprising two or more RSSs, and compositions and host cells comprising same, as well as fusion proteins variants produced by the described methods. |
| US09914924B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating neurological disease
This invention relates to methods and compositions for treating neurological disease, and more particularly to methods of delivering iRNA agents to neural cells for the treatment of neurological diseases. |
| US09914917B1 |
Kexin-based vaccines to prevent or treat fungal infections
A vaccine is disclosed that promotes CD4+ T cell-independent host defense mechanisms to defend against infection by fungi such as Pneumocystis subspecies (spp.). The vaccine may be used to prevent or to treat fungal infections. The novel vaccine can provide protective immunity, even for immunocompromised individuals such as HIV patients having reduced levels of CD4+ T cells. |
| US09914915B2 |
Streptococcus bacteriophage lysins for detection and treatment of gram positive bacteria
The present invention provides methods, compositions and articles of manufacture useful for the prophylactic and therapeutic amelioration and treatment of gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, and related conditions. The invention provides compositions and methods incorporating and utilizing Streptococcus suis derived bacteriophage lysins, particularly PlySs2 and/or PlySs1 lytic enzymes and variants thereof, including truncations thereof. Methods for treatment of humans are provided. |
| US09914914B2 |
Polymerase capable of producing non-DNA nucleotide polymers
The invention relates to a nucleic acid polymerase capable of producing a non-DNA nucleotide polymer from a DNA nucleotide polymer template, the polymerase comprising amino acid sequence having at least 36% identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the amino acid sequence is mutated relative to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein the amino acid sequence comprises the mutations P657T, E658Q, K659H, Y663H, D669A, K671N, and T676I; wherein the amino acid sequence is further mutated relative to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 at residue: E664 and wherein the amino acid sequence comprises the mutation E664K. The invention also relates to methods of making nucleotide polymers comprising use of this polymerase. Suitably the nucleotides are arabino nucleotides such as ARA or FANA nucleotides. |
| US09914903B2 |
Automatic device and method for inoculating a sample at different concentrations
An automatic device for inoculating a sample on a substrate with a dilution mechanism formed by a head that holds a stylus in cooperation with a first dilution tank and a second dilution tank to dilute an original sample in at least one sub-sample and for inoculating the sub-sample on a substrate. |
| US09914897B2 |
Subcritical water assisted oil extraction and green coal production from oilseeds
Provided herein are methods of optimizing energy recovery from oilseeds. The methods disclosed provide at least the ability to swell oilseeds and disrupt the cell walls (hulls) without changing the functionality and quality of oil; the process integration of removing the impurities from oilseeds, oil extraction, protein hydrolysis, and green coal production to maximize the energy recovery in the form of crude oil, polypeptides, oligopeptides, amino acids, and/or green coal from oilseeds; and heat integration during processing stages including subcritical water pretreatment, oil extraction, subcritical water post-treatment, and subcritical water carbonization to minimize the process heat requirement. |
| US09914891B2 |
Process for maximizing diesel production using a heavy heavy naphtha stream
Methods of maximizing diesel production are describes. The methods include providing a stream of heavy heavy naphtha; and blending the stream of heavy heavy naphtha with a diesel stream from the crude distillation zone to increase diesel production while maintaining the blended diesel stream within a specification for diesel. Various apparatus for maximizing diesel production are also described. |
| US09914888B2 |
Processes for treating a hydrocarbon stream
Processes for treating a hydrocarbon stream to remove heteroatoms from the hydrocarbons. A portion of the hydrotreated effluent is separated in a membrane separation zone to remove hydrogen sulfide and ammonia from the effluent portion which includes hydrogen. The hydrogen effluent portion may be recombined with the remaining hydrotreated effluent and passed to a hydrocracking zone. The hydrogen sulfide and ammonia may be combined with an effluent from the hydrocracking zone. |
| US09914887B2 |
Two-stage hydrocracking process for making heavy lubricating base oil from a heavy coker gas oil blended feedstock
The present invention is directed to a refining process for producing heavy lubricating base oils (LBO) from a blended hydrocarbonaceous feedstock containing a heavy coker gas oil, a visbroken gas oil, heavy cycle oil, oils from residue hydrocracking, aromatic extract or any other feedstock normally not conducive to lube oil basestock production, using a two-stage hydrocracking process. |
| US09914882B2 |
Reverse emulsion breaker polymers
The present invention generally relates to methods for resolving water and oil emulsions in the produced fluid of an oil production system comprising adding a reverse emulsion breaker to the produced fluid of the crude oil production system in an amount effective for resolving an oil-in-water emulsion. In particular, these methods for resolving an oil-in-water emulsion can be used in separation processes where the oil and solids in the produced fluid are separated from the produced water in the produced fluid. |
| US09914874B2 |
Composite nanoparticles including a malonic acid derivative
A composite particle that includes: a fluorescent semiconductor core/shell nanoparticle (preferably, nanocrystal); and a malonic acid derivative attached to the core/shell nanoparticle outer surface, wherein the malonic acid derivative (prior to attachment to the nanoparticle) has the following Formula (I): wherein: R1 is a linear or branched alkyl group having 8 or more carbon atoms, or a linear or branched alkylene group having 8 or more carbon atoms (wherein it is understood that C—R1 is a single or double bond); R2 is H or a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 or more carbon atoms; and x is 0 (resulting in C═R1) or 1 (resulting in C—R1); and wherein the malonic acid derivative is liquid at room temperature (prior to attachment to the nanoparticle). |
| US09914872B2 |
Proppants
Embodiments of proppants are described herein. In one embodiment, a proppant for hydraulic fracturing includes a proppant body. The proppant body has a length (L) and an outside diameter (D), and the proppant body length (L) to the proppant body outside diameter (D) ratio (L/D) is about 0.3 to about 5.0. The proppant body includes a space frame, and the space frame includes a plurality of rigid members creating a plurality of openings allowing fluid to flow through the proppant thereby increasing permeability. In another embodiment, a proppant for hydraulic fracturing includes a substantially cylindrical proppant body with a substantially circular cross-sectional area and an internal flow path with a substantially circular cross-sectional. |
| US09914871B2 |
Ball sealer for hydrocarbon resource recovery, method for manufacturing same, and method for treating borehole using same
A ball sealer for hydrocarbon resource recovery, characterized by being obtained by coating a spherical core that comprises at least one layer comprising a disintegrable aliphatic polyester resin with a resin material that has higher impact resistance than the aliphatic polyester resin and by having a diameter of not less than approximately 25 mm (1 inch). This ball sealer has a large diameter, retains the property of being disintegrable after fracturing, and has impact resistance which makes the ball withstand high-velocity loading. The sealer is suitable for use in hydraulic fracturing, which is commonly used for recovering hydrocarbon resources including petroleum and gases.This large-diameter ball sealer can be efficiently formed with high dimensional accuracy by a method including at least one insert injection molding step. |
| US09914870B2 |
Lignin-containing polymers and compositions including lignin-containing polymers
A composition includes an agent formed by grafting at least a first polymer with lignin and a component other than the agent, lignin or the at least a first polymer, wherein lignin has an affinity for the component. A method of dispersing a component in a matrix includes adding an agent to the matrix. The agent is formed by grafting at least a first polymer with lignin. The first polymer has an affinity for the matrix. Lignin has an affinity for the component. The component is other than the agent, lignin or the at least a first polymer. The method for includes contacting the matrix with the component. |
| US09914869B2 |
System and method for inhibiting scale formation in oil wells
An amount of treatment water injected into a subterranean well may be reduced by providing an environmentally friendly polymer, such as a biodegradable polymer (e.g., an aspartic acid based polymer), to the subterranean well. In some cases, the aspartic acid based polymer may include one or more of a copolymer of the aspartic acid based polymer, a terpolymer of the aspartic acid based polymer, an aspartic acid based polymer derivative, an aspartic acid based polymer having an end cap, and a soluble salt of the aspartic acid based polymer. In some cases, the treatment water use may be reduced within the range of about five percent to about ninety five percent. |
| US09914868B2 |
Methods and compositions for using temporary compacted materials as well servicing fluids in a subterranean formation
Provided is a method of treating a subterranean formation comprising: preparing a well servicing fluid comprised of a base fluid, a temporary compacted material wherein the temporary compacted material is a compacted organic acid; placing the well servicing fluid into a subterranean formation; and allowing the temporary compacted material to gradually dissolve. |
| US09914867B2 |
Completion fluid friction reducer
A method and composition for reducing a coefficient of friction are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method for reducing a coefficient of friction between two surfaces in a borehole includes preparing a mixture comprising a primary lubricating agent, a primary surfactant, a spreading agent, and an aqueous fluid. The method also includes pumping the mixture into the borehole such that the mixture contacts the two surfaces and reduces the coefficient of friction for the two surfaces. |
| US09914866B2 |
Percolated microstructures for multi-modal transport enhancement in porous active materials
A method of forming a composite material for use in multi-modal transport includes providing three-dimensional graphene having hollow channels, enabling a polymer to wick into the hollow channels of the three-dimensional graphene, curing the polymer to form a cured three-dimensional graphene, adding an active material to the cured three-dimensional graphene to form a composite material, and removing the polymer from within the hollow channels. A composite material formed according to the method is also provided. |
| US09914865B2 |
Compositions comprising phase change materials and methods of making the same
In one aspect, compositions are described herein. In some embodiments, a composition comprises a phase change material, a hydrophobic sorption material, and a viscosity modifier. In some embodiments, a composition comprises a foam and a latent heat storage material dispersed in the foam, the latent heat storage material comprising a phase change material and a hydrophobic sorption material. |
| US09914864B2 |
Shaped abrasive particles and method of forming same
An abrasive particle including a shaped abrasive particle including a body having a plurality of abrasive particles bonded to at least one surface of the body of the shaped abrasive particle. |
| US09914858B2 |
Water whitening-resistant pressure sensitive adhesives
Water resistant, acrylic emulsion pressure sensitive adhesive polymers containing particles having a mean “volume-average” particle diameter of greater than about 210 nm for use in label and tape application are provided. The emulsion polymers exhibit an increase in opacity of less than about 10%. |
| US09914854B2 |
Multilayer film having at least one thin layer and continuous process for forming such a film
The invention relates to a continuous self-metered process of forming a multilayer film comprising at least two superimposed polymer layers comprising the steps of: (i) providing a substrate (5); (ii) providing two or more coating knives (2, 3, 4) which are offset, independently from each other, from said substrate (5) and/or from an adjacent coating knife to form at least one substrate gap (9) relative to the surface of the substrate (5) and at least one outlet gap (10) relative to the surface of an adjacent coating knife; (iii) moving the substrate (5) relative to the coating knives (2, 3, 4) in a downstream direction (6), (iv) providing curable liquid precursors of the polymers (I, II, III) to the upstream side of the coating knives (2, 3, 4) thereby coating the two or more precursors (I, II, III) through the respective gaps (9, 10) as superimposed layers (12, 13, 14) onto the substrate (5); (v) optionally providing one or more solid films (1 1) and applying these essentially simultaneously with the formation of the adjacent lower polymer layer, and (vi) curing the precursor of the multilayer film thus obtained; wherein a lower layer of a curable liquid precursor (I, II, III) is covered by an adjacent upper layer of a curable liquid precursor (I, II, III) or a film (1 1), respectively, essentially without exposing said lower layer of a curable liquid precursor (I, II, III). |
| US09914852B2 |
Reduction in large particle counts in polishing slurries
The present disclosure provides a method for reducing large particle counts (LPCs) in copper chemical mechanical polishing slurry by way of using high purity removal rate enhancer (RRE) in the slurry. The conductivity of the RRE in deionized water solutions correlates very strongly with the number of LPCs in the RRE, and thus in a slurry using the RRE. |
| US09914849B2 |
Plunger and methods of producing hydrophobic surfaces
Highly durable hydrophobic and/or oleophobic coatings and methods and compositions for their production are described herein. Also described herein is a plunger having a hydrophobic surface prepared using the coating compositions described herein. |
| US09914847B2 |
Resin composition for forming a phase-separated structure, and method of producing structure containing phase-separated structure
A resin composition for forming a phase-separated structure, including: a block copolymer, and an ion liquid containing a compound (IL) having a cation moiety and an anion moiety, the energy of the LUMO of the cation moiety being −4.5 eV or more, and the energy difference between the LUMO and the HOMO of the cation moiety being 10.0 ev or more, or the Log P value of the anion moiety being 1 to 3. |
| US09914842B2 |
Plasticizer for mastics, plastisols and adhesives
The disclosure relates to a plasticizer for mastics, plastisols and adhesives. The plasticizer includes at least one functionalized hydrocarbon-containing cut, in particular hydroxylated. The disclosure also relates to the mastic, plastisol and adhesive compositions including the plasticizer. The present disclosure also relates to the use of the plasticizer for reducing the phenomenon of bleeding in mastics, plastisols and adhesives. |
| US09914839B2 |
Stain repellent and VOC eliminating coatings and use thereof
A coating dispersion or building article can include titanium dioxide, and a dihydrazide. The coating dispersion or building article can further include calcium carbonate, calcined aluminum silicate, acrylic polymers, and a fluoroalkyl polymer. |
| US09914834B2 |
Melt processed polymer composition derived from leaf sheaths of trees of the genus Arecaceae
The invention relates to a novel polymer as well as to a method for the preparation of a polymer or polymer blend comprising a novel new matrix component, to a method for the preparation of the said first matrix component, to a method for the preparation of an article comprising the said polymer or polymer blend, as well as to an article comprising the said polymer or polymer blend. |
| US09914833B2 |
Biodegradable polymer composition for the manufacture of articles having a high heat deflection temperature
This invention relates to a biodegradable polymer composition which is particularly suitable for use in the manufacture of articles having a high heat deflection temperature (HDT) by injection molding and thermoforming. |
| US09914830B2 |
Low molecular weight brominated polymers, processes for their manufacture and their use in thermoplastic formulations
This invention relates flame retardant compositions containing low molecular weight brominated anionic, chain transfer, vinyl aromatic polymers, hereinafter “ACTVAP”. The compositions can accommodate high bromine content while still exhibiting a low thermally labile bromine content. The compositions have glass transition temperatures, Tg, that are predictive of acceptable melt flows and heat distortion temperatures (HDT) in HIPS and ABS based formulations substrates. The compositions, are suitable flame retardant candidates for use in thermoplastic formulations, e.g. polystyrene and ABS formulations. |
| US09914829B2 |
Crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone compositions
Low-dusting, granular compositions are provided that comprise at least 15% by weight crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone. |
| US09914827B2 |
Concentrated polymeric compositions of vinyl aromatic polymers and/or copolymers
The present invention relates to a concentrated polymeric composition which comprises: a) vinyl aromatic polymers and/or copolymers in an amount ranging from 10% to 90% by weight, calculated with respect to the overall composition, with respect to the overall composition, b) at least one compound containing epoxy functional groups in an amount ranging from 0.01% to 5% by weight, calculated with respect to the overall composition, with respect to the overall composition, c) at least one infrared absorbing agent, in an amount ranging from 10% to 90% by weight, calculated with respect to the overall composition, with respect to the overall composition. |
| US09914825B2 |
Modified heterophasic polyolefin composition
A heterophasic polymer composition comprises a propylene polymer phase, an ethylene polymer phase, and a compatibilizing agent. The compatibilizing agent is a compound comprising at least one moiety conforming to the structure of Formula (I) |
| US09914824B2 |
Biodegradable plastic and manufacture thereof from recyclable plastic
A process for manufacturing biodegradable plastic from high percentage recyclable plastic feedstock and the product thereof. The process includes receiving recyclable plastic feedstock including high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, expanded polyethylene, and stretched wrap, separating the plastic feedstock by plastics of like type, grinding the separated plastics into particulate while maintaining the temperature below said separated plastic's decomposition and melting point. The plastics are mixed in proportion, adding a biodegradable additive to the particulated plastic mixture with further mixing to produce the biodegradable plastic. Optionally, the resulting plastic is extruded for later use. |
| US09914823B2 |
Keratin in rubber applications
A rubber composition includes an elastomer having an elongation at break (Eb) of about 50% or more according to ASTM-D 412 at 25° C., a water-insoluble keratin, and a reinforcing filler. A tire component including the composition and a method for making the composition are also disclosed. |
| US09914821B1 |
Air springs with improved high temperature performance
An air spring bellow comprising a vulcanized rubber component including the at least partially vulcanized residue of EPDM and a rubber other than EPDM. |
| US09914820B2 |
Lumps and composition
Provided is a lump that is suitable to be used with rubber and compounding agents in producing rubber products with low hardness, of which an uniform kneaded product can be quickly obtained while kneading to produce rubber products, and that does not easily change its shape even when stored for a long period of time. |
| US09914818B2 |
Crosslinkable fluorine-containing elastomer composition and molded article made of said composition
There are provided a crosslinkable elastomer composition which assures a small change in weight in both of There are provided a crosslinkable elastomer composition which assures a small change in weight in both of O2 plasma treatment and O2/CF4 plasma treatment and is capable of significantly inhibiting generation of foreign matters (particles) in these treatments, and a molded article made of the composition. The crosslinkable fluorine-containing elastomer composition comprises a crosslinkable fluorine-containing elastomer, silicon carbide particles having a bulk density of not more than 0.15 g/cm3, and further a crosslinking agent as case demands, and the molded article is obtained by crosslinking the composition. |
| US09914817B2 |
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon functionalized isobutylene copolymers for dispersing graphene and graphite
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) functionalized isobutylene copolymers, methods for making a PAH functionalized isobutylene copolymer comprising combining a halogenated copolymer with a PAH in a solvent under basic conditions at a temperature ranging from 30° C. to 150° C., the use of these PAH functionalized copolymers as a dispersant in elastomeric nanocomposite compositions comprising a halobutyl rubber matrix and nanoparticles of graphite or graphene, and a tire innerliner or innertube produced from these elastomeric nanocomposite compositions is disclosed. |
| US09914816B2 |
Methods and materials for depolymerizing polyesters
Provided is a method of depolymerizing polyesters from post-consumer products, such as beverage bottles, to produce a high purity reaction product. For the depolymerization reaction, the polyesters are reacted with an alcohol and an amine organocatalyst at a temperature of about 150° C. to about 250° C. In one application, the use of an organocatalyst with a boiling point significantly lower than the boiling point of the reactant alcohol allows for the ready recycling of the amine organocatalyst. In another application, performing the depolymerization reaction under pressure at a temperature above the boiling point of the alcohol allows for accelerated depolymerization rates and the recovery of the organocatalyst with no further heat input. In a further application, glycolytic depolymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) produces a reaction product of bis(2-hydroxyethyl)terephthalate (BHET), which may in turn be used to produce high purity beverage bottle grade PET, in a closed loop process with minimal waste. |
| US09914813B2 |
Polyol composition for producing flexible polyurethane foam and flexible polyurethane foam
A polyrotaxane is blended into a polyol composition, which can reduce the tensile stress of a flexible polyurethane foam. A vertical compressive stress due to the weight of a sitting user and a tensile stress due to the input of lateral vibrations act on a urethane pad. However, by reducing the tensile stress of the flexible polyurethane foam, the direction (inclination) of a resultant force obtained by combining the compressive stress and the tensile stress can be brought close to the vertical direction. Thus, the angle of inclination of the user's hip (ischium) on the urethane pad to the vertical direction due to the input of lateral vibrations can be reduced, so that the sense of wobble of the urethane pad can be reduced. |
| US09914810B2 |
Transparent conductive film and touch panel
A transparent conductive film having a transparent polymer substrate and a transparent conductive layer on one main surface of the transparent polymer substrate. A cured resin layer with surface irregularities is formed: at least one of: between the transparent polymer substrate and the transparent conductive layer; and on the main surface opposite to the surface with the transparent conductive layer formed thereon of the transparent polymer substrate. The cured resin layer is preferably 1 μm or more and 3 μm or less in thickness and preferably contains a resin composition containing at least two components that undergo phase separation based on a difference in physical properties and 0.01 to 5 parts by weight of fine particles to 100 parts by weight of the solid content of the resin composition. The particle size of the fine particles is preferably 25 to 80% of the thickness of the cured resin layer. |
| US09914807B2 |
Thiol-ene polymer metal oxide nanoparticle high refractive index composites
A bulk polymer composite comprising a thiol-ene polymer matrix, or the corresponding polymers derived from a phosphinyl, selenol, or arsinyl monomer, and metal oxide nanoparticles dispersed within said matrix, said nanoparticles being bonded to polymer molecules contained in the matrix. Terpolymers that further comprise repeat units derived from a molecular metal oxide cluster, and composites in which such terpolymers function as a matrix for metal oxide nanoparticles are also disclosed. |
| US09914806B2 |
Agglomerated rubber particles and method of preparing
A synthetic latex composition, comprising rubber particles, natural surfactants, a novel acid stable surfactant and water for use in agglomeration processes. The invention is also directed to a reproducible method for preparing agglomerated latex particles to control and achieve particle size targets within a specified range and distribution, by utilizing the inventive latex composition and process conditions, but without the use of elevated temperature, pressurization or mechanical agitation of prior art processes. |
| US09914805B2 |
Device for synthesizing a polymer with reduced formation of deposits in the reaction chamber
The invention relates to a device for synthesizing a polymer accompanied by separating a gaseous substance. Said device comprises: a reactor chamber (1) having a substantially circular cylinder-shaped upper section (11), which is delimited by two circular surfaces (111, 112) and a circumferential surface (113) and has a longitudinal cylinder axis, and a lower section (12), the upper section (11) and the lower section (12) being connected to one another via the first circular surface (111); an inlet opening (2); a first outlet opening (3), which is arranged in a wall of the lower section (12); a second outlet opening (4), which is arranged in the second circular surface (112) or in the circumferential surface (113) between the inlet opening (2) and the second circular surface (112); and a removal device (51), which is arranged so as to be movable along the longitudinal cylinder axis at least between the second circular surface (112) and the inlet opening (2), and contacts the circumferential surface (113). The invention further relates to a method comprising: feeding an oligomer melt (7) into a circular cylinder-shaped first section (11) of a reaction chamber (1) through an inlet opening (2) tangentially to a circumferential surface (113) of the first section (11); polymerizing the oligomer melt (7) to form a polymer melt (8); removing the polymer melt (8) from the reaction chamber (1) through a first outlet opening (3) of the reaction chamber (1); and removing a gaseous substance (9) from the reaction chamber (1) through a second outlet opening (4) of the reaction chamber (1) above the inlet opening (2). Deposits on at least one inner wall of the first section (11) of the reaction chamber (1) above the inlet opening (2) are removed by a removal device (51). |
| US09914803B2 |
Cyanate resin blends and radomes including them
Certain embodiments are directed to cyanate resin blends comprising, for example, a mixture of a cyanate monomer and a cyanate oligomer. The resin blends are effective to provide a dielectric constant of less than 2.7, a glass transition temperature of at least 150° C. and a moisture absorption of less than 1.5%. Radomes using the resin are also described. |
| US09914798B2 |
Supramolecular elastomer networks containing grafted oligoamide hard components
An oligoamide-modified elastomer includes an elastomer having oligoamide units grafted to the elastomer and forming a plurality of sheet-like structures through hydrogen bonding, the sheet-like structures interacting through non-covalent interactions to form crystalized domains within the elastomer. |
| US09914797B2 |
Alkali-swellable crosslinked acrylate copolymer, methods of manufacture thereof, and composition comprising the same
A rheology modifier including: a water-dispersible, alkali-swellable crosslinked polyacrylate copolymer including 0.02 to 5 weight percent of polysaccharide grafts, based on a total weight of the copolymer. |
| US09914796B2 |
Method for producing (meth)acrylic resin composition
A method of producing a (meth)acrylic resin composition. The method comprises a step of continuously feeding a monomer mixture comprising 80 to 100% by mass of methyl methacrylate and 20 to 0% by mass of an alkyl acrylate to a tank reactor and bulk polymerizing the monomer mixture until obtaining a polymerization conversion of 40 to 70% by mass to prepare a reaction product; continuously discharging the reaction product, and heating the reaction product to 200° C. to 270° C. with a heater, and then separating the unreacted monomer with a extruder equipped with a vent; and transferring the separated unreacted monomer entrained by an inert gas flow to reuse the separated unreacted monomer as a raw material of the monomer mixture. |
| US09914793B2 |
Spheroidal catalyst for olefin polymerization
A solid, spheroidal polymerization catalyst having a particle size distribution characterized by a Dm*/Dn of less than 3.0, the catalyst comprising a phosphinimine catalyst, a cocatalyst and a magnesium chloride support. A process for the polymerization of ethylene with one or more alpha olefin catalyzed by a solid, spheroidal polymerization catalyst having a particle size distribution characterized by a Dm*/Dn of less than 3.0, the catalyst comprising a phosphinimine catalyst, a cocatalyst and a magnesium chloride support. |
| US09914792B2 |
Ethylene-propylheptyl(meth-)acrylate copolymers
The present invention relates to copolymers which are formed from specific amounts of (a) ethylene and (b) monomer(s) selected from propylheptylacrylate and propylheptyl-methacrylate, and optionally at least one further monomer. Said copolymers are useful as oil soluble additives for cosmetic formulations and especially oil depositioning enhancers for rinse-off formulations. |
| US09914790B2 |
Low molecular weight graft polymer for scale inhibitor
The present disclosure relates generally to a composition comprising a low molecular weight graft polymer. The graft polymer is a graft homopolymer, copolymer or terpolymer. Additionally, the present disclosure relates to a scale inhibitor composition comprising the low molecular weight graft polymer. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a process for preventing the deposition of scale from water or aqueous solution and a method for scale inhibition treatment of an oil or gas production well by using the low molecular weight graft polymer. The scale inhibitor is low corrosive for application in the oilfield. |
| US09914787B2 |
Elastomeric, hydrogen-resistant biopolymer and its use in oil and gas and hydrogen gas piping and transportation
A new generation elastomeric biopolymer produced by yeast belonging to the family Saccharomycetaceae, and an isolated yeast belonging to the genus Williopsis that produces and secretes the biopolymer. |
| US09914786B2 |
Process to prepare crosslinked cellulose ethers, crosslinked cellulose ethers obtainable by such process and the use thereof
The invention relates to a dry or slurry process to prepare phosphate-crosslinked cellulose ethers from a cellulose starting material comprising the steps of adding an alkalizing agent to the cellulose starting material to achieve mercerization, adding an ethehfying agent to the reaction mixture to achieve etherification of the cellulose, and adding a crosslinking agent to the reaction mixture to achieve crosslinking of the cellulose, wherein at least part of the alkalizing agent is added to the cellulose starting material before the etherification and/or crosslinking reactions take place to obtain alkalized cellulose; the crosslinking agent and the etherifying agent are added one after the other in random order or simultaneously; the crosslinking agent is an alkali metal thmetaphosphate; and the crosslinking and etherification steps are performed at an elevated temperature. Additionally, the invention relates to crosslinked cellulose ethers obtainable by the above process having a viscosity and/or water absorption capacity higher than their non-crosslinked equivalents and the use thereof. |
| US09914785B2 |
Engineered immunoglobulin heavy chain-light chain pairs and uses thereof
The present invention provides heterodimer pairs comprising a first heterodimer and a second heterodimer wherein each heterodimer comprises an immunoglobulin heavy chain or fragment thereof and an immunoglobulin light chain. At least one of the heterodimers comprises amino acid modifications in the CH1 and/or CL domains, amino acid modifications in the VH and/or VL domains or a combination thereof. The modified amino acid residues are part of the interface between the light chain and heavy chain and are modified in order to create preferential pairing between each heavy chain and a desired light chain such that when the two heavy chains and two light chains of the heterodimer pair are co-expressed in a mammalian cell, the heavy chain of the first heterodimer preferentially pairs with one of the light chains rather than the other. Likewise, the heavy chain of the second heterodimer preferentially pairs with the second light chain rather than first. |
| US09914776B2 |
Bispecific T cell activating antigen binding molecules
The present invention generally relates to novel bispecific antigen binding molecules for T cell activation and re-direction to specific target cells. In addition, the present invention relates to polynucleotides encoding such bispecific antigen binding molecules, and vectors and host cells comprising such polynucleotides. The invention further relates to methods for producing the bispecific antigen binding molecules of the invention, and to methods of using these bispecific antigen binding molecules in the treatment of disease. |
| US09914764B2 |
Variant factor VIII polypeptides and methods of their production and use
This disclosure relates to variant Factor VIII polypeptides comprising an amino acid substitution at one or more positions within one or both of the thrombin cleavage site and the activation loop. In certain embodiments, the variant Factor VIII polypeptide comprises one or more amino acid substitutions within both the thrombin cleavage site and the activation loop. In further embodiments, the variant factor VIII polypeptide further comprises one or more amino acid substitutions within the A1-A2 domain interface and the A2-A3 domain interface. The present disclosure further relates to methods of producing and/or using such variant Factor VIII polypeptides; nucleic acids encoding the polypeptides; vectors and/or recombinant cells, tissues, or organisms containing such nucleic acids; and kits and pharmaceutical compositions containing such polypeptides and/or nucleic acids. |
| US09914757B2 |
Methionyl tRNA synthetase for biosynthesis of photomethionine-labeled protein and method for preparing photoactive protein G variant using same
Provided is a methionyl tRNA synthase (MRS) for the biosynthesis of a photomethionine-labeled protein and a method for preparing a photoactivatable protein G variant using same and, more particularly, to an MRS variant in which alanine at the position of 12th is substituted with glycine, leucine at the position of 13th by serine, tyrosine at the position of 260th by phenylalanine, isoleucine at the position of 297th by valine, and histidine at the position of 301st by leucine from the N-terminal of the amino acid sequence of a wild-type Escherichia coli methionyl tRNA synthase. The MRS variant effectively confirms the biosynthesis of a photomethionine (pM)-labeled target protein and thus can be utilized for the biosynthesis of a pM-labeled target protein. In addition, a pM-introduced protein G variant, in which a plasmid encoding the MRS variant (MRS5m) and a PG-C3 plasmid, in which, in the third immunoglobulin G binding region of protein G, positions of 32nd, 35th, and 40th are substituted with a methionine (Met) residue and a position of 37th by an arginine (Arg) residue, are introduced into Escherichia coli and then refined, has a specific covalent bond with an antibody when subject to UV irradiation, and thus the pM-introduced protein G variant using the MRS variant can be utilized for producing a highly sensitive biochip, biosensor, or cell-capturing chip. |
| US09914749B2 |
Surface neutralization of apatite
The present invention discloses methods of neutralizing apatite surfaces, for example during chromatography and before protein elution. |
| US09914745B2 |
Morpholino-based antisense agent
Morpholino-based oligomers suitable as antisense agent comprising modifications of phosphorodiamidate backbone or modification with 5-substituted pyrimidines of morpholino compound that is soluble in culture medium and sufficient for cell penetration thereby eliminating the need for injecting into the cells. Monomers comprising the said oligomers and its method of manufacture, method of manufacture of the said oligomers and its dye, fluorophore, drug, biomolecule conjugate wherein the said oligomers find different end use but not limited to regulation of gene expression, tissue culture with improved transfection efficiency and related studies on cellular transfection. |
| US09914743B2 |
Organic silver complexes, their preparation methods and their methods for forming thin layers
Provided herein is a method for preparing a silver complex. The method includes reacting a silver oxide with a mixture of ammonium carbamate and isopropyl amine at room temperature in the presence of methanol. |
| US09914742B2 |
Tetra-heteroaryl indacenodithiophene-based polycyclic polymers and their use
The present invention relates compounds comprising a tetra-heteroaryl indacenodithiophene-based structural unit, the synthesis of such compounds as well as their use in organic electronic devices. The invention further relates to organic electronic devices comprising such compounds. |
| US09914732B2 |
Diazabicyclo[4.3.1]decane derivatives for treatment of psychiatric disorders
The present invention relates to diazabicyclo[4.3.1]decane derivatives, pharmaceutically acceptable salts of these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions containing at least one of these compounds together with pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, excipient and/or diluents. Said diazabicyclo[4.3.1]decane derivatives can be used for prophylaxis and/or treatment of psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, disorders and conditions. |
| US09914729B2 |
Amides of acetic and propionic acids
The invention relates to novel amides of acetic and propionic acids, methods for production and use thereof for the production of medicaments for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases and for improving perception, concentration, learning ability and memory. |
| US09914721B2 |
Use of benzimidazole-proline derivatives
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula (I) wherein Ar1 and Ar2 are as described in the description and to their use as pharmaceuticals for the treatment of sundown syndrome. The invention also relates to the preparation of such compounds and of pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. |
| US09914717B2 |
Cycloalkenyl hydroxamic acid derivatives and their use as histone deacetylase inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, or prodrug thereof, wherein W, X, n, s, t, and Ra are as described herein. The present invention relates generally to selective inhibitors of histone deacetylase and to methods of making and using them. |
| US09914716B2 |
Catalyst system for oxidation of o-xylene and/or naphthalene to phthalic anhydride
The present invention relates to a catalyst system for oxidation of o-xylene and/or naphthalene to phthalic anhydride (PA), comprising a plurality of catalyst zones arranged in succession in the reaction tube, which has been produced using antimony trioxide consisting predominantly of the senarmontite modification of which all primary crystallites have a size of less than 200 nm. The present invention further relates to a process for gas phase oxidation, in which a gas stream comprising at least one hydrocarbon and molecular oxygen is passed through a catalyst system which comprises a plurality of catalyst zones arranged in succession in the reaction tube and which has been produced using an antimony trioxide consisting predominantly of the senarmontite modification with a median primary crystallite size of less than 200 nm. |
| US09914712B2 |
Antibacterial thiazolecarboxylic acids
Compounds of general formula (I): wherein R1, R11, Y, R2, n and A are as defined herein are useful as inhibitors or metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) enzymes and can be used for reducing or removing antibiotic resistance in bacteria. |
| US09914710B2 |
Bicyclic arylcarboxylic acid amides and their use as herbicides
Bicyclic arylcarboxamides of the general formula (I) are described as herbicides. In this formula (I), Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4 and Z5 are a bond, O, S(O)n or a substituted carbon atom. X is a radical such as hydrogen, organic radicals such as alkyl, and other radicals such as halogen. Q is a substituted heterocycle. |
| US09914709B2 |
Compositions and methods of treating HIV-1 infections using same
The present invention includes novel compositions useful for preventing or treating an HIV-1 infection in a subject in need thereof. The present invention further includes a novel method of preventing or treating an HIV-1 infection in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a compound of the invention. In one embodiment, the subject is further administered at least one additional therapeutic agent. |
| US09914703B2 |
Pyridic ketone derivatives, method of preparing same, and pharmaceutical application thereof
Pyridone derivatives, methods of preparing the pyridone derivatives, and methods of using the pyridone derivatives are provided. In particular, pyridone derivatives of formula (I), and pharmaceutical salts thereof are provided. The pyridone derivatives are useful as mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors, and can be used as therapeutic agents for treating cancer. |
| US09914702B2 |
Amine derivatives as potassium channel blockers
The present invention relates to compounds useful in the modulation of potassium channel activity in cells, in particular the activity of Kv1.3 channels found in T cells. The invention also relates to the use of these compounds in the treatment or prevention of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods for their preparation. |
| US09914699B2 |
Process of dehydration reactions
The present invention relates to the production of acrolein, acrylic acid or methacrylic acid by dehydration reaction of renewable raw material such as glycerin or hydroxycarboxylic acids, in the presence of a novel catalyst system supported on a carrier having a bimodal structure and a high pore volume and distribution. The dehydration reactions can be carried out for longer operation duration, so that acrolein, acrylic acid or methacrylic acid can be produced at higher productivity and for longer running time. |
| US09914698B2 |
Stearoyl amino acid salt and preparation method and application thereof
A stearoyl amino acid salt having a structural formula of the general formula (I), wherein R1 is H or an aromatic base capable of being substituted by one or more substituents, or a C1-4 straight chain or an alkyl with a branched chain, the substituent being an alcoholic hydroxyl group or a phenolic hydroxyl group; and R2 is a C11-25 saturated or unsaturated aliphatic group. Also provided are methods of preparing the stearoyl amino acid salt, and methods of using the stearoyl amino acid salt. Compared to a prototype drug stearoyl amino acid, the stearoyl amino acid salt described herein has excellent physicochemical properties, good stability, high relative bioavailability, a strong drug effect and a high safety factor. It is thus expected to become a candidate for clinical treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and acute brain injury, and a clinical drug for weight loss, thus having broad application prospects. |
| US09914697B2 |
Methods for making polymorphs of bromfenac sodium and bromfenac sodium formulations
Different polymorphs of bromfenac sodium may be prepared and interconverted using crystallization/recrystallization, drying and/or hydration techniques. |
| US09914694B2 |
Purification of cadaverine using high boiling point solvent
The present invention relates to a method for the purification of cadaverine from an aqueous cadaverine salt composition comprising one or more involatile impurities, the method comprising: (1) mixing the aqueous cadaverine salt composition with one or more bases selected from the group consisting of Ca(OH)2, Mg(OH)2, CaO and MgO to provide an aqueous cadaverine composition; and (2) distilling or evaporating the aqueous cadaverine composition to produce purified cadaverine; wherein one or more solvents are added to the evaporation/distillation system before the evaporation/distillation stops, and the one or more solvents comprise at least one or more high boiling point (HBP) solvents. |
| US09914691B2 |
(3R) epimer of octahydro-7,7-dimethyl-8-methylene 1H-3a, 6-methanoazulene-3-yl acetate, composition, synthesis process and use of said epimer
The first subject matter of the invention is the (3R) epimer of octahydro-7,7-dimethyl-8-methylene-1H-3a,6-methanoazulen-3-yl acetate [(octahydro-7,7-dimethyl-8-methylene-[3R,3aR,6R,8aR]-1H-3a,6-methanoazulen-3-yl acetate) or (R)-norzizaenylacetate] of formula I (I). The subject matter of the invention is also compositions comprising (R)norzizaenyl acetate and also a novel synthesis process and the use of said ester. |
| US09914690B2 |
Method for catalytic conversion of ketoacids via ketoacid dimer intermediate and hydrotreatment to hydrocarbons
The present invention relates to catalytic conversion of ketoacids, including methods for increasing the molecular weight of ketoacids. The method can include providing in a reactor a raw material having at least one ketoacid. The raw material is then subjected to one or more C—C-coupling reaction(s) in the presence of an ion exchange resin catalyst to produce at least one ketocid dimer. The method can include providing in a reactor a feedstock having the at least one ketoacid dimer and subjecting the feedstock to one or more C—C-coupling reaction(s) at a temperature of at least 200° C. |
| US09914684B2 |
Feed sources for allyl alcohol production processes
Allyl alcohol production processes are generally described herein. One or more of the processes generally include contacting a propylene oxide stream with an isomerization catalyst under isomerization conditions sufficient to form an isomerization product stream including allyl alcohol, wherein the propylene oxide stream includes a total impurity concentration of at least 100 ppm. One or more of the processes generally includes purging at least a portion of a stream from one or more separation unit(s). |
| US09914683B2 |
Fuel synthesis from an aqueous solution
A method of synthesizing fuel from an aqueous solution includes pumping the aqueous solution, containing dissolved inorganic carbon, from a body of water into a carbon extraction unit. The method further includes extracting the dissolved inorganic carbon from the aqueous solution to create CO2 by changing a pH of the aqueous solution in the carbon extraction unit. The CO2 derived in the carbon extraction unit is received by a fuel synthesis unit, and the CO2 is converted into fuel including at least one of a hydrocarbon, an ether, or an alcohol using the fuel synthesis unit. |
| US09914679B2 |
Processes for removing entrained ionic liquid from a hydrocarbon phase
One or more processes for recovering entrained ionic liquid from a hydrocarbon phase containing droplets of ionic liquid are described. The processes includes contacting the hydrocarbon phase containing the droplets of ionic liquid with a retaining material in a separation zone. The droplets of ionic liquid are retained by the retaining material. The ionic liquid may be recovered from the retaining material with a solvent or desorbent. The retaining material may be regenerated and the ionic liquid may be reactivated. The retaining material may be used in a wash vessel to retain or remove contaminant solids within the reactor or other vessels. |
| US09914677B2 |
Fluidizable alkane dehydrogenation catalyst
Fluidizable catalysts for oxygen-free oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes to corresponding olefins. The catalysts contain 10-20% (by weight per total catalyst weight) of one or more vanadium oxides as the catalytic material, which are mounted upon an alumina support that is modified with zirconia at alumina/zirconia ratios of 5:1 up to 1:2. Various methods of preparing and characterizing the fluidizable catalysts are also provided. |
| US09914669B2 |
Systems and methods for plasma-based fluid treatment
The disclosed invention relates to a liquid treatment system comprising a fluid input channel and a plasmatron coupled to the fluid input channel, the plasmatron operative to affix nitrogen to liquid received from the fluid input channel resulting in treated liquid. The system further comprises a liquid chamber connected to the plasmatron for storing treated liquid and a treated fluid output channel connected to the liquid chamber. |
| US09914665B2 |
Method for producing granulates
A method for producing granulates, particularly for use as thermal insulation for a metal melt may include mixing a powdery mineral with a binder, and the mixture may be granulated in order to produce a semi-finished product. The granulate mixture or the semi-finished product may be heated rapidly to a temperature above the melting temperature or decomposition temperature of the binder, which may be in the form of a salt, so that the binder decomposes, whereby gas is released and the volume increases. The apparent density of the granulate mixture may decrease, and therefore the apparent density of the finished product may decrease with respect to the semi-finished product. |
| US09914660B2 |
Sensitized, photo-sensitive glass and its production
A sensitized, photo-structurable glasses and methods for producing are provided. The glasses includes Si4+, one or more crystal-agonist, one or more crystal-antagonist, and one or more pair of nucleating agents. The glasses are sensitized in that the glass reacts more sensitive to irradiation with UV-light and can be crystallized easier and with higher aspect ratios than a non-sensitized glass with equal composition. Furthermore, the sensitized glasses of this invention have smaller crystal sizes after irradiation and tempering than a non-sensitized glass with equal composition. The invention also relates to a structured glass product. Such product can be obtained by submitting the crystallized glass product to a subsequent etching step. The structured product can be used in components or as component for the application fields micro-technology, micro-reaction-technology, electronic packaging, micro-fluidics, FED spacer, bio-technology, interposer, and/or three-dimensional structured antennae. |
| US09914656B2 |
Self-sinking aeration hose
Disclosed herein is an aeration hose capable of diffusing bubbles of air within a body of water, comprising a) a hose portion derived from a composition, comprising a polyvinyl chloride resin; a first rubber component; a second rubber component; at least one copolymer; at least one low temperature plasticizer; at least one filler comprising titanium dioxide; at least one heat stabilizer; at least one internal lubricant; at least one antioxidant; and at least one biofouling agent, wherein the hose portion comprises an outer hose portion, an inner hose portion and a plurality of hose apertures capable of receiving and diffusing pressurized air, and wherein the hose is flexible and has no memory, wherein the hose apertures are provided therethrough the inner hose portion and the outer hose portion and proportionally spaced about the outer hose portion along a length of the hose portion. |
| US09914653B2 |
Water treatment process and water treatment system
In a water treatment system and a water treatment process, a scale inhibitor is supplied to water to be treated containing Ca ions, SO4 ions, carbonate ions, and silica, and the water to be treated is adjusted to a pH at which silica is soluble. The pH-adjusted water containing the calcium scale inhibitor is separated in a first demineralizing section into concentrated and treated water. In a first crystallizing section, seed crystals of gypsum are supplied to the first concentrated water, whereby gypsum is crystallized and removed from the first concentrated water. Silica in the water to be treated is removed from the first concentrated water on the downstream side of the first crystallizing section. Calcium carbonate in the water to be treated is removed from the first concentrated water on the upstream side of the first demineralizing section or the downstream side of the first crystallizing section. |
| US09914648B2 |
Process for producing hematite for ironmaking
A process is provided for obtaining a hematite-containing material that can be used for ironmaking. The process includes separating a leach residue from a hydrometallurgical refining plant into an overflow and an underflow using a wet cyclone under a condition that the wet cyclone is adjusted to have a setting between 1 μm or less and 2 μm or less as a classification particle size for the overflow. The process then includes separating the overflow into a strong magnetic substance and a weak magnetic substance using a strong-magnetic-field magnetic separator under a condition that magnetic field intensity is 5 to 20 [kGauss]. The process then includes using a superheated steam drying system for adjusting a moisture content of the strong magnetic substance after the separation, to be 10 wt % to 17 wt %. |
| US09914647B2 |
Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide sheets and methods of preparation and use
Methods of forming two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide sheets are provided. The methods include adding a cross-linking agent to an activating agent to form a solution and mixing a two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide with the solution to form a mixture. The methods also include adding a cleaving agent to the mixture to form one or more contiguous sheets of transition metal dichalcogenide. |
| US09914646B2 |
Method for the processing of potassium containing materials
A method for the processing of potassium containing materials comprises: (i) Separation of a potassium containing mineral from gangue minerals; (ii) Acid leaching whereby substantially all potassium, iron, aluminum and magnesium is solubilized and mixed potassium/iron double salt formed; (iii) Selectively crystallizing the mixed potassium/iron double salt formed in the leach step (ii); (iv) Second separation to separate the mixed potassium/iron double salt formed in step (iii); (v) Thermal decomposition to produce an iron oxide, a potassium salt and one or more phosphates; (vi) Leaching the product of the thermal decomposition; (vii) Third separation to separate the iron oxide and phosphate from the potassium salt; (viii) Recovering the potassium salt by crystallization; (ix) Separating the iron oxide and phosphate of step (vii) by leaching and subsequent solid liquid separation; and (x) Precipitating phosphate from liquor produced in step (ix) through the addition of a base. |
| US09914641B2 |
Hydrogen generation assemblies
Hydrogen generation assemblies and methods of generating hydrogen are disclosed. In some embodiments, the method may include receiving a feed stream in a fuel processing assembly of the hydrogen generation assembly; and generating a product hydrogen stream in the fuel processing assembly from the received feed stream. Generating a product hydrogen stream may, in some embodiments, include generating an output stream in a hydrogen generating region from the received feed stream, and generating the product hydrogen stream in a purification region from the output stream. The method may additionally include receiving the generated product hydrogen stream in a buffer tank of the hydrogen generation assembly; and detecting pressure in the buffer tank via a tank sensor assembly. The method may further include stopping generation of the product hydrogen stream in the fuel processing assembly when the detected pressure in the buffer tank is above a predetermined maximum pressure. |
| US09914637B2 |
Electronic device using MEMS technology
According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a base region, an element portion located on the base region, the element portion including a movable portion, and a protective film overlying the element portion and forming a cavity on an inner side of the protective film. The protective film includes a first protective layer and a second protective layer located on the first protective layer. A hole extends in a direction parallel to a main surface of the base region, and the second protective layer covers the hole. |
| US09914635B2 |
Mannequin upholstery shaping device
The invention pertains to upholstery techniques for upholstering the central bust line of mannequins. Particularly a shaping body is coupled to the central line of the upholstery and shaped to conform to the central bust line of an underlying mannequin form. The shaping body includes anchors, preferably, in the form of strings, which can be fed through the mannequin form and tensioned accordingly. The shaping body is preferably elongate with two identical body members coupled by a fold therebetween. The first body member is coupled to a first side of the central bust line seam of the upholstering covering and the second body member is coupled to the second side of the central bust line seam of the upholstering covering. The fold therebetween is shaped to conform to the shape of the central bust line of the mannequin form. The use of such a shaping body results in a natural convex curve of the central bust line. |
| US09914629B2 |
Variable flow dispensing valve
The present invention relates to a variable flow valve, in particular for filling with a foaming fluid. Preferably, but not exclusively, the valve of the invention can be used in net weight filling machines.In particular, the invention relates to a filling valve (1) for filling machines comprising a hollow body (2) which encloses a cavity (4) in which a filling fluid is introduced and which opens at its bottom into a dispensing opening (5), a shutter (3) being axially sliding in the cavity (4), wherein the shutter (3) comprises a tip (6), adapted to shut the dispensing opening (5), a stem (7) and an adjusting member (16) for adjusting the flow rate of the filling fluid, characterized in that the adjusting member (16) comprises a toroidal body (17) arranged coaxially with respect to the stem (7) and floating with respect thereto. |
| US09914625B2 |
Winch or hoist system with clutch adjustment
A clutch comprises an input shaft, an output shaft, a biasing member and a plunger. The biasing member is arranged to provide a biasing force that allows torque transfer from the input shaft to the output shaft via one or more input friction plates and one or more output friction plates. Axial displacement of the plunger relative to the output shaft may cause the biasing force to vary to adjust the maximum torque setting of the clutch during reeling-in or reeling-out of a winch cable around a winch drum. A winch assembly may be provided that includes an arm in operable connection with a winch drum. The arm is displaced as the effective radius of the drum varies during reeling in or reeling out. Displacement of the arm can be communicated to the plunger to provide the axial displacement thereof. |
| US09914620B2 |
ABS brake control circuit for elevator braking
An ABS brake control circuit for elevator breaking comprises a brake controller, a backup power supply, a manual rescue instruction circuit, a power grid power-off instruction circuit, a system failure instruction circuit, a signal identification circuit and a brake mode switching circuit. when transport equipments, such as an elevator, an escalator, and so on, encounters a system failure or power grid power-off or needs an emergency rescue, the ABS brake control circuit can allow the transport equipment to transition to a safe brake stop through a previous safe deceleration, thereby eliminating a significant security risk caused by a halt resulted from one-step brake which exists in an elevator brake system, and being capable of ensuring that the manual brake releasing will not cause the phenomena of a stalling of an elevator car and a brake failure of a brake, such that the brake safety of the transport equipments such as an elevator, an escalator, a moving walkway and the like is increased. |
| US09914616B2 |
Image forming apparatus having pivotally-movable image reading device above sheet discharge tray
In an image forming apparatus, a discharge roller discharges a sheet conveyed by a first conveying path. The discharge roller switches between: a mode of conveying a sheet in a sheet discharging direction to discharge a sheet; and a mode of reversing a direction of conveying a sheet from the sheet discharging direction and feeding a sheet to a re-conveying path. A pivot plate at an open position constitutes a second conveying path. The pivot plate at a closed position closes the second conveying path. The pivot plate is provided with a penetrating portion penetrating the pivot plate over an entire thickness of the pivot plate. The penetrating portion constitutes part of the re-conveying path when the pivot plate is disposed at the closed position. Part of the pivot plate is exposed outside the housing. |
| US09914615B2 |
Magnetic band and associated methods thereof
A magnetic band that is made of elastomeric resin material with magnets deposed therein is disclosed. The magnetic band optionally contains wires and also optionally contains holes at each end that may have grommets inserted into the holes. The magnetic band is used for a plurality of purposes including its ability to hold metallic magnetic items. |
| US09914614B2 |
Sheet, sheet conveying apparatus and sheet conveying method
An embodiment of the invention is directed to a sheet, wherein a conveying direction of the sheet relative to a sheet conveying apparatus is determined; the sheet is formed with a crease along which to fold the sheet and that is smaller than or equal to 90 μM in depth and extends in a direction that crosses the conveying direction; and a grammage of the sheet is in a range of 200 to 370 g/m2. |
| US09914613B2 |
Mechanism for discharging sheets in apparatus for processing sheets and apparatus for reading images provided with the mechanism
In a sheet discharge mechanism for enabling a wide range of sheets stored on a sheet discharge tray from a processing section, a brake lever for reducing a velocity of a sheet fed from a sheet discharge outlet is held detachably relative to an attachment frame above the sheet discharge tray, and it is possible to select whether brake action is made corresponding to sheet discharge conditions. A sheet discharge mechanism includes a sheet discharge path having a sheet discharge outlet, a sheet discharge tray disposed on the downstream side of the sheet discharge outlet with a level difference, and a brake section of a sheet carried out at the sheet discharge outlet, wherein the brake section includes a lever member in which its base end portion is axially supported by an attachment frame, and its front end portion moves up and down corresponding to a load amount of sheets. |
| US09914611B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet stacking apparatus includes a discharging portion including a nip portion nipping and conveying a sheet, a stacking portion on which the sheet discharged by the discharging portion is stacked, an air blowing unit configured to blow air toward a lower face of the sheet being discharged by the discharging portion, and an air volume control portion configured to control the air blowing unit such that a volume of the air blown by the air blowing unit is switched from a first air volume to a second air volume which is smaller than the first air volume while the nip portion of the discharging portion is nipping and conveying the sheet to set the volume of the air to the second air volume in a case where a trailing end of the sheet discharged by the discharging portion passes through the nip portion. |
| US09914609B2 |
Feeder
A non-splicing feeder provided with multiple sprockets in the conveyance direction. Provided are a second sprocket that is rotatably provided at a position adjacent to a supply position of a main body and on which is formed a second engaging protrusion, a third sprocket that is rotatably provided at a position adjacent to an insertion section of the main body and on which is formed a third engaging protrusion, and a rail, the upper surface of which forms a conveyance path of a carrier tape, which is provided above the second sprocket and third sprocket, wherein space is formed above the rail between the second sprocket and third sprocket, and in a case in which engaging protrusions of both the third sprocket and second sprocket have engaged with engaging holes of a carrier tape, the carrier tape is slackened such that the carrier tape separates from the rail into space. |
| US09914606B1 |
Media path jam clearing
One example includes an apparatus comprising spaced apart rails, each of the rails including an opposing slot that extends longitudinally and parallel to each other and terminates at a stop located at an end of the rail. Support holders may attach to opposing sidewalls of a cassette body insertable between the rails. Elongated rods may link each rail and a corresponding one of the support holders. One end of each rod may fit in a respective slot to enable longitudinal movement of the rods relative to the rails, engagement between the one end of each rod and respective rail stop cooperating to enable rotation of the rods relative to the rails in a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal movement. Another end of each of the rods may be movably retained within a respective one of the support holders. |
| US09914605B2 |
Sheet conveyance device and image forming apparatus
If a damper or a magnetic catch is used to make a guide member self-holdable in an opened state, a force is required for holding the weight of the guide member in the opened state. This increases an operation force for closing the guide member and degrades the operability. In contrast, if a mechanical holding mechanism without using the damper is employed, the hold may be disengaged without intention of a user. A sheet conveyance device includes an upper conveyance guide for guiding a conveyed sheet and a holding portion for holding the upper conveyance guide in an opened position with respect to a lower conveyance guide opposed thereto, wherein the upper conveyance guide includes an operation portion for disengaging engagement between the upper conveyance guide and the holding portion, and the holding portion includes an operation portion for disengaging engagement between the upper conveyance guide and the holding portion. |
| US09914604B2 |
Sheet feeder device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeder device includes: a sheet feed tray configured to store a sheet stack formed with a plurality of paper sheets; an elastic member capable of expanding and contracting; a contact mechanism configured to bring the elastic member into contact with an edge of the sheet stack; an expansion mechanism configured to expand the elastic member in a direction of stacking of the paper sheets; and a control unit configured to cause the expansion mechanism to expand the elastic member while the elastic member is kept in contact with the edge of the sheet stack by the contact mechanism. |
| US09914601B2 |
Method and tool for palletizing mixed load products
The problem of the lag time in picking and dropping mixed load products during a palletization process is solved by using a tool having i) a gripping member that can be partially closed in a first fast movement while it is moved by a robot towards a product and then closed onto the product in a second shorter movement and ii) a product abutting plate that is movable in unison with the tool in opposite direction thereof as the tool is moved by a robot towards and away the mixed load pallet. |
| US09914600B2 |
Method for automated filling of a mail tray from a vertical stacker
An automated mail tray filling apparatus for taking envelopes from a vertical stacker output of an inserter machine and placing them in mail trays. A vertical stack of envelopes rests on a long stacker table. The mail tray filling apparatus has a track positioned next the vertical stacker table parallel to the length of the vertical stacker table. A mail tray transport is positioned beneath the track and arranged to transport mail trays beneath the track in a direction parallel to the vertical stacker table. A movable mail tray filler is movably mounted on the track to travel in parallel next to the vertical stacker table and above the mail tray transport, and is arranged to withdraw envelopes from the end of the vertical stack in a sideways direction. Envelopes are then redirected into a downward direction and fed into a mail tray positioned beneath the movable mail tray filler. |
| US09914598B2 |
Squaring device and counter ejector, and box-manufacturing machine
A squaring device provided to a counter ejector part that stops flat cardboard boxes fed from an upstream, using a front stop, in a downstream part of a box-manufacturing machine, receives and stacks the flat cardboard boxes in a stacking part in a hopper part, and ejects the stack as a batch. It includes a squaring plate that, while the stacking part retains in a stack position during a retention interval, squares the cardboard boxes stacked on the stacking part, in conjunction with the front stop, the retention interval being set in accordance with a feed speed of the cardboard boxes and a count setting for a stack of the cardboard boxes. A reciprocation driving unit drives the squaring plate to reciprocate toward and away from the front stop, and is configured to vary a speed ratio of a squaring speed for reciprocating the squaring plate, to the feed speed. |
| US09914596B2 |
Conveying device
A conveying device for transport of workpiece carriers from and to one or more machining stations, has a stationary conveyor track having at least one guide rail, with at least one stopping device provided for stopping the workpiece carrier. This stopping device is formed as a pivot lever that is integrated in the at least one guide rail and pivotable for stopping the workpiece carrier from a neutral position in which it is aligned with the guide rail, to a position pivoted outwardly out of the guide rail. A method of stopping a workpiece carrier is also provided. |
| US09914587B2 |
Storage device
Position-indexed storage device comprising a support and a basket installed on the support, the basket comprising a plurality of compartments distributed around a longitudinal axis, the basket comprising a central passage with a longitudinal axis, the support comprising a shaft with a longitudinal axis, the shaft being housed in the passage such that relative displacement is possible between the basket and the support along the longitudinal axis, and mechanical means for displacement of the basket relative to the support by a given angle about the longitudinal axis are supported by the internal surface of the passage and the external surface of the shaft, said mechanical displacement means being actuated in each cycle, each cycle comprising a relative separation or approach displacement along the longitudinal axis of the basket and the support. |
| US09914586B2 |
Parcel sorting system and method
Provided are a parcel sorting system and method, solving the problem that parcel sorting efficiency needs to be improved in the prior art. The parcel sorting system comprises a parcel sorting device and a parcel collecting device. The parcel sorting device is provided thereon with a plurality of parcel inspection inlets and a plurality of parcel outlets. The parcel collecting device is located under the parcel sorting device. The parcel outlets on the parcel sorting device communicate with the parcel collecting device. The parcel outlets are respectively located at the middle or/and edges of the parcel sorting device. The parcel collecting device is provided thereon with storage devices at positions under respective parcel outlets; and diameter of the storing device is larger than that of the parcel outlet. When the method is used, the parcel sorting efficiency is obviously improved; the implementation is convenient; and popularization and application are facilitated. |
| US09914584B2 |
Three-piece resealable can
A three-piece resealable can for acidic liquid includes, a cylindrical can body member that includes a screw portion at one end; and a can bottom member that contacts the can body member so as to close an opening portion of the other end of the can body member. The can body member includes a cylindrical first steel sheet, Ni plating that is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first steel sheet, a polyester film that is formed so as to be disposed on the outermost surface of the inner circumference of the can body member, and a Zr-containing film that is formed between the first steel sheet and the polyester film. The can bottom member includes a second steel sheet, and Sn plating that is formed on the can body member side of the can bottom member. The Zr-containing film contains Zr compounds. |
| US09914581B2 |
Spray can attachable actuator and brush assembly
A spray can attachable actuator and brush assembly includes an actuator assembly attachable overtop a valve stem of an existing aerosol canister and a brush assembly attachable to the actuator assembly. A lower portion of a seating member frictionally engages to the aerosol canister when an attachment collar is rotationally engaged thereabouts. A head member is connectable into a seating connect disposed in a top surface of the seating member whereby an interior channel engages overtop the valve stem. A brush attachment base secures into the head member to position an elongate nozzle in open communication with an outlet terminating the interior channel. A brush body is securable to the elongate nozzle, and depression of the head member thereby enables selective release of fluid depressurized from the aerosol canister for delivery into the brush body for subsequent application to an object by manual action directing the brush body. |
| US09914580B1 |
Pocket wax dispenser
A pocket wax dispenser is constructed of an elongated tubular casing with carriage of an appropriate profile to match the casing slidably fitted within the casing to travel axially within the casing without rotating, and with a piston at the distal end of the carriage. An end cap snaps or screws onto the distal end of casing. This construction results in a wax reservoir being defined in the distal part of the dispenser, i.e., within the casing and between the piston and the end cap and adapted for holding a fill of wax. The end cap has a discharge port, i.e., an opening or aperture, through which wax from within the wax reservoir can be extruded. A cutter blade may be mounted on the cap to cut the extrusion at the discharge port. |
| US09914577B2 |
Packaging assembly
The present subject matter provides a packaging assembly. The packaging assembly includes an inner protection layer which fits and is in contact with a surface of an object to be packaged, and an outer protection layer which covers the inner protection layer. The materials of the outer protection layer and the inner protection layer have different elastic coefficients. |
| US09914574B2 |
Temperature condition indicators for perishable product containers
Disclosed herein is a temperature condition indicator disposed upon the top surface of a lid or cap for a container or on the container or vial for a perishable product, such as a food or a drug composition. The indicator can change appearance when exposed to a temperature condition, such as a freezing event. |
| US09914572B2 |
Packaging
A package assembly (20) comprises products enclosed in a tubular packet (24) formed from a flexible wrapper (26). A line of weakness (40) encloses an opening region (42) in a side wall (28) of the packet. The opening region (42) is at least partially removed to create a dispensing opening by tearing the wrapper along the line of weakness (40). In one embodiment, the packet is opened by pressing one of the products through the opening region. In another embodiment, a sticker (150, FIG. 3) is adhered to the opening portion to provide a tab (152, FIG. 3) which can be pulled to open the packet. In a further embodiment, the packet is enclosed in a stiff outer cover (260, FIG. 5). The cover has a reclosable flap (262) bonded to the opening region so that on first opening of the flap, the packet is torn along the line of weakness. |
| US09914567B2 |
Dispensing closure, container with a dispensing closure and method for manufacturing a dispensing closure
The present invention relates to a dispensing closure being attachable to a container for dispensing a flowable medium from the container, having a closure body having an outer skirt and a dispensing element being attached to the closure body and being pivotable relative to the closure body between a closed position and a dispensing position. The outer skirt of the closure body has an upper rim with a recess region, and the dispensing closure has a tamper evident band being positioned in the recess region and being attached to the upper rim via at least one frangible connection, wherein the tamper evident band is positioned in the recess region such that it is positioned at least partly between the upper rim and the extension portion of the dispensing element, so that the dispensing element cannot be moved into its dispensing position, before the tamper evident band is removed. |
| US09914564B2 |
Dispenser
A dispenser assembly having a container and an insert secured within the container. The insert includes a product cartridge defining a product containing space and a dispensing body having a dispenser receptacle. The product containing space has a first opening through which product exits, and the dispenser receptacle has a second opening at least partially offset from the first opening through which product enters the dispenser receptacle. The dispenser assembly further includes a push-button assembly attacked to the insert, including a button that moves between first and second positions. The button has an orifice defined therein in communication with one of the first or second openings when in the first position and with the other of the first or second openings when in the second position, such that the button permits transmittal of product between the first and second openings when moved between the first and second positions. |
| US09914563B2 |
Reclosable bag having a loud sound during closing
A closure mechanism for a reclosable bag including an elongated groove profile having two arms which define an opening to a channel, and an elongated rib profile opposing the groove profile, wherein a plurality of first segments of the rib profile alternate with a plurality of second segments of the rib profile to create a structural discontinuity along a length thereof. The groove profile and the rib profile form a first zipper, the second segments have a smaller cross-section when viewed perpendicular to the length of the rib profile than the first segments, and the second segments are longer than the first segments. |
| US09914558B2 |
Servicable draw and return tube assembly
A serviceable draw and return tube assembly for use in fuel tanks is disclosed. The assembly may include a draw tube and a return tube secured to a plate, wherein the plate may be removably secured to a flange, which is fixedly secured to a fuel tank. The process of removably securing the plate to the flange allows for use of different sizes and materials to be utilized in manufacture of the assembly, thereby saving installation time and manufacturing costs. |
| US09914557B2 |
Tooth protector for beverage bottle and beverage bottle enclosure
Tooth protector devices are disclosed for attachment to the top of a bottle to provide protection against injury, including chipping of teeth that can occur during drinking from a glass bottle. One embodiment comprises a concentric sleeve with top lip for insertion over the end of a bottle. Sleeve inner portion is adapted for engaging the bottle outer surface to hold the sleeve in place. The outer and top portions of the sleeve protect the consumer from the top edge of the bottle. When installed, a tooth protector according to the present invention cushions the teeth and mouth from any blunt force or impact that can occur when a bottle is hit or knocked. Also disclosed is a beverage cap with cushioned outer and upper surfaces that remain in place on the beverage bottle after opening the bottle to protect the consumer, and another bottle enclosure without such cushioned surfaces. |
| US09914554B2 |
Apparatus for packaging dosed quantities of medicines and method for operating such apparatus
An apparatus for packaging dosed quantities of medicines and method for operating such apparatus. The apparatus includes multiple dosing stations for dispensing solid drug portions, and multiple collectors for collecting dosed quantities of solid drug portions and for forwarding the dosed quantities of solid drug portions to a packaging station. Each dosing station has an outlet and each collector has a unique collector identifier. A conveyor includes multiple mounting elements arranged in a chain, wherein each collector is detachably mounted to one of the mounting elements and moved by the conveyor along the dosing stations, so that the collector can receive the solid drug portions dispensed at the outlets of the dosing stations. A controller controls the operation of the dosing stations, the conveyor and the packaging station. Input means (80, 81) are coupled to the control means (19) for inputting the collecting means identifier. The controller maintains a mapping between identifiers assigned to each mounting element or mounting position and the unique collector identifiers of the collectors. |
| US09914548B1 |
USB power management and load distribution system
A power management system includes a power management and load distribution (PMLD) circuit within an airplane coupled to an AC power source, at least one AC/DC conversion circuit operable to convert the AC power into a DC power, and at least one programmable output capability outlet (PPCO) circuit operable to receive the DC power. The PMLD circuit stores a predetermined maximum power limit, continuously measures a power output, and increases or decreases a power capability setting based on a comparison of the measured power output to the predetermined maximum power limit. The PPCO circuit includes a USB connector couplable to a personal electronic device (PED) of a passenger for charging the PED at an amount of DC power indicated by the power capability setting. The PPCO circuit is also operable to negotiate a power contract with the PED. |
| US09914547B2 |
Aircraft equipped with a device for monitoring the electronic management of the engines
An aircraft comprising at least two engines and an electronic management arrangement comprising a control computer for each engine, each computer being configured for monitoring the operation of its associated engine and for activating an engine protection mode when the engine operation exceeds predetermined operational limits. The electronic management arrangement furthermore comprises an engine interface device to which the control computers are connected, the device prohibiting the activation of a protection mode by a control computer when a protection mode is activated by another control computer. A monitoring device is connected to the control computers and receives an information signal from each control computer to indicate if a protection mode is activated and transmits, in the case where a protection mode is activated on at least two engines, a control signal to the control computer having last activated a protection mode to cancel the activation of the protection mode. |
| US09914540B2 |
Variable thermal resistance device for vehicular seats
A seating assembly comprising: a frame having an opening; a support surface spanning the opening in the frame; a variable thermal resistance device that opposes the support surface when the variable thermal resistance device is in a closed state in which airflow is obstructed, the variable thermal resistance device being movable from the closed state to an open state in which airflow is not obstructed and from the open state to the closed state; and an actuator coupled to the variable thermal resistance device. The actuator is operable to actuate movement of the variable thermal resistance device between the open and closed states. |
| US09914536B2 |
Method of activating an electric motor in a hybrid power plant of a multi-engined aircraft, and an aircraft
A method of driving rotation of a rotor of an aircraft, said aircraft having at least two fuel-burning engines and an electric motor suitable for driving rotation of said rotor. Said rotor is driven by using said engines together. An authorization is generated only during at least one predetermined stage of flight, said authorization authorizing the use of the electric motor in order to drive said rotor in rotation. While said authorization is valid and if one of said engines has failed, then an operation order is generated to require said electric motor to operate. While said operation order is valid, said rotor is driven by each engine that has not failed together with said electric motor. |
| US09914535B2 |
Passive rotor control mechanism for micro air vehicles
Technology for achieving the behavior and benefits of traditional cyclic control in one rotor may be implemented with a simple under-actuated passive mechanism. An air vehicle employing the disclosed technology maintains lifting thrust by regulating the average rotor speed and generates control moments through coordinated pulsing of the motor torque. Rapid pulsing of the motor torque induces oscillations in propeller angle of attack, and so causes “cyclic control” without requiring the traditional auxiliary actuators and linkages. The MAV propulsion system is capable of using a minimum number of actuators in dual roles of thrust and moment objectives. |
| US09914534B2 |
Method for static balancing of aircraft rotor blades
A method of assembling a rotor blade includes determining first spanwise and chordwise moments of a first component of the blade and comparing the first spanwise and chordwise moments to respective target first spanwise and chordwise moments. The first spanwise and/or chordwise moment(s) of the first component is/are adjusted based upon corresponding results of the comparison to provide balancing of the first component. Second spanwise and chordwise moments of a second component of the blade are determined and compared to respective target second spanwise and chordwise moments. The second spanwise and/or chordwise moment(s) of the second component is/are adjusted based upon corresponding results of the comparison to provide balancing of the second component. The balanced first and second components are assembled to each other so that target spanwise and chordwise moments of the blade are met. |
| US09914532B2 |
Shock absorber
An aircraft landing gear shock absorber having an inner housing portion slidably coupled within an outer housing portion, and a chamber which defines a sealed fluid volume for containing shock absorber fluid within the shock absorber. The chamber includes a moveable wall portion arranged to move between a first position and a second position, and in the second position the effective volume of the chamber is decreased such that the shock absorber fluid pressure increases, to provide a bump to the shock absorber. |
| US09914523B2 |
Wing hinge assembly including hinged torque boxes
A wing assembly comprises a fixed section, a foldable section, and a hinge assembly for hinging the foldable section to the fixed section. The hinge assembly includes a plurality of interleaved torque boxes that are hinged together. |
| US09914521B1 |
Balloon launching apparatuses
Aspects of the disclosure relate to techniques for launching high-altitude balloons. In one aspect, a balloon launching system is provided. The balloon has a balloon envelope, a payload attached to the balloon envelope and a launching projection. The launching system includes a releasable restraint attached to the balloon between an apex and bottom of the balloon envelope. The releasable restraint is arranged to temporarily hold the balloon envelope. The launching system also includes a payload positioning assembly. The payload positioning assembly is configured to position the payload during launch of the balloon and includes a member configured to attach to the launching projection. When attached, the member is also configured to maintain the position of the payload relative to the balloon while the releasable restraint is temporarily holding the balloon envelope. |
| US09914520B2 |
Vessel propulsion apparatus
A vessel propulsion apparatus includes an engine that rotates a crankshaft in a forward rotation direction, a rotation speed detector that detects a rotation speed of the crankshaft, a propeller shaft coupled to a propeller, a shift switch that switches between a shift-in state and a neutral state, a shift state detector, an intake passage, a throttle valve, an intake pressure sensor, and a controller. The controller determines that the crankshaft is reversely rotating by an external force input from the propeller shaft when a predetermined reverse rotation recording condition is satisfied, and stores reverse rotation information. The reverse rotation recording condition includes a condition that an intake pressure after the shift switch switches from a neutral state to a shift-in state while the crankshaft rotates in the forward rotation direction is larger than a value equal to or higher than atmospheric pressure. |
| US09914517B2 |
Mounting device for outboard motor
In an upper mount portion, a steering central axis related to a steering force of a steering handle and a vibration central axis related to a torque reaction force of an engine are configured to be shifted back and forth. A mount member is formed such that a spring constant related to the vibration central axis is smaller than a spring constant related to the steering central axis. |
| US09914510B2 |
Yacht or ship having lighting elements on or in hull
The current invention relates to a yacht or other vessel, such as a ship, comprising a hull and a superstructure, wherein at least one of the hull and the superstructure comprises cladding elements thereon or therein, wherein at least a selection of the cladding elements comprise an at least partially transparent cover and at least one light source, wherein the light source is shielded by the cover. Furthermore, the invention relates to a cladding element containing light sources, to be in use arranged on the hull of a yacht, or in swimming pools and in particular side walls and/or bottoms thereof, as well as on surrounding structures, like a pool house or paths or pavements there around, in bridges, for example on bridge decks and/or against uprights and/or stairs and/or walls, or in ornamentation of public spaces and public structures. |
| US09914505B2 |
Installation method for water-submersible platforms and installation vessel
A method for installing a water-submersible platform is disclosed. The method includes lowering the platform in water from a vessel positioned above the platform while spuds connecting the vessel to the platform stabilize the platform during lowering. An assembly of the vessel and platform, and a vessel that is used to connect to the platform is also disclosed. |
| US09914503B2 |
Boat having an improved ability to get on plane and improved method of getting a boat on plane
A boat includes at least three trim devices positioned aft of the boat's transom. To improve the boat's ability to get on place, each trim device is initially positioned to a deployed position. The speed of the boat is then determined as the boat gains speed. When the speed of the boat exceeds a first predetermined threshold, the first trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a second predetermined threshold, the second trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. When the speed of the boat exceeds a third predetermined threshold, the third trim device is moved from the deployed position to a non-deployed position. At least one of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds is different from the other two of the first, second, and third predetermined thresholds. |
| US09914500B2 |
Kickscooter with detachable electric drive module with hub-center steering and vibration dampening wheel
A number of variations may include a foldable scooter comprising a first frame component, wherein the first frame component comprises a steering column and a handlebar, wherein the steering column is integrated with an electric drive unit speed controller which is constructed and arranged to operatively control a removeable electric drive module; a second frame component, wherein the second frame component is rotatably attached to the first frame component so that the first frame component can fold onto the second frame component and wherein the second frame component includes a deck; a front wheel operatively connected to the first frame component; and a rear wheel operatively connected to the second frame component. |
| US09914498B2 |
Vehicle pneumatic cylinder and pendulum/valve controlled G-force compensator
A suspension system with a frame pivotally coupled to a control arm, an actuator pivotally coupled between the frame and the control arm, a control valve fluidly coupled to the actuator, a valve core positioned within the control valve and being slidable between a first position and a second position, and a pendulum coupled to the valve core having a neutral position and an offset position. Further, when the pendulum is in the neutral position, the valve core is in the first position and when the pendulum is in the offset position the valve core is in the second position. |
| US09914497B2 |
Track assembly for providing traction to an off-road vehicle such as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a snowmobile
A track assembly for traction of an off-road vehicle, such as an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or a snowmobile, is disclosed. The track assembly comprises a plurality of track-contacting wheels, which comprises: a drive wheel; and a plurality of idler wheels spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the track assembly. The track assembly also comprises an endless track disposed around the track-contacting wheels. A frame of the track assembly may comprise a hollow frame structure. The hollow frame structure may be dimensioned to impede accumulation of snow, mud, rocks, debris, etc. in the track assembly. The track assembly may comprise interwheel guides between longitudinally adjacent ones of the idler wheels to contact a bottom run of the endless track, and/or fenders adjacent to given ones of the idler wheels. The frame's hollowness, the interwheel guides, and/or the fenders may be realized during molding of a portion of the frame using a blow molding or other fluid-based molding process. |
| US09914494B1 |
Sporting event hospitality system
A system includes a mobile vehicle having a roof with a top surface; a plurality of lounge chairs secured to the top surface; a heater telescopically engaged to the top surface and positioned above the plurality of lounge chairs; a television pivotally secured to the heater; and an observation platform telescopically engaged with the top surface and configured to support at least one lounge chair of the plurality of lounge chairs. |
| US09914490B2 |
Frame structure with at least one console for connecting further components, method for producing and motor vehicle body
A frame structure for a motor vehicle body includes at least two profile components and a connecting node, which connects the profile components with each other. At least one of the profile components has at least one console which is made of fiber reinforced plastic and on which other components can be fastened or supported. |
| US09914489B2 |
Underbody stiffening and covering module
An underbody stiffening and covering module is provided, which has a flat, non-load-bearing covering component made from a plastic material. At least one reinforcing strut is connected firmly to the covering component, the reinforcing strut extends along a predetermined load path and has a respective connection device on its end sections, with which, together with the covering component, is able to be connected to a predetermined underbody section at force application points. |
| US09914487B2 |
Work vehicle
A work vehicle includes: a vehicle body frame; a prime mover part that is supported by the vehicle body frame; a bonnet that is configured to vertically swing between a closed position at which the prime mover part is covered, and an open position at which the prime mover part is open; and a support frame that supports a free end side of the bonnet located at the closed position. At least left and right guide-target parts of the bonnet or left and right guiding parts of the support frame have left and right inclined surfaces that serve as centering effective surfaces. |
| US09914482B2 |
Vehicle side structure
The configuration of a vehicle side structure according to the present invention is characterized by including an upper pillar reinforcing member that forms an upper edge of a front door opening of a vehicle, a pillar hinge reinforcing member that forms a front edge of the front door opening, and a side sill strengthening member that forms a lower edge of the front door opening, wherein the pillar hinge reinforcing member has a hinge bulged portion that is bulged toward the vehicle exterior, along a vertical direction, the hinge bulged portion has at least one ridge line that is curved so as to protrude toward the vehicle front side, and the at least one ridge line links a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the upper pillar reinforcing member and a joining point between the pillar hinge reinforcing member and the side sill strengthening member. |
| US09914481B2 |
Vehicle lower portion structure
A reinforcement member disposed at a front portion of a floor panel is disposed angled toward a vehicle width direction inside on progression from a position (input portion on a vehicle width direction outside and vehicle front-rear direction front side of the floor panel toward the vehicle front-rear direction rear side. An outer end portion of the reinforcement member is joined to a rocker, and an inner end portion of the reinforcement member is joined to a floor tunnel portion. When the vehicle is involved in a frontal collision, collision load is input in an oblique direction to the position on the vehicle width direction outside and the vehicle front-rear direction front side of the floor panel. |
| US09914478B2 |
Tow behind steerable caddy trailer
A steerable caddy trailer is provided that has an improved structure including a main frame assembly, spindle assemblies attached to each end of the main frame for attachment of a wheel, a pair of swinging arms forwardly extending from the main frame and pivotally attached to the main frame, and tie rods connecting the swinging arms with the spindle assembly such that pivoting of the swinging arms steers the wheels. |
| US09914475B2 |
Humanized steering model for automated vehicles
A humanized steering system for an automated vehicle includes one or more steering-wheels operable to steer a vehicle, an angle-sensor configured to determine a steering-angle of the steering-wheels, a hand-wheel used by an operator of the vehicle to influence the steering-angle and thereby manually steer the vehicle, a steering-actuator operable to influence the steering-angle thereby steer the vehicle when the operator does not manually steer the vehicle, a position-sensor operable to indicate a relative-position an object proximate to the vehicle, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive the steering-angle and the relative-position, determine, using deep-learning techniques, a steering-model based on the steering-angle and the relative-position, and operate the steering-actuator when the operator does not manually steer the vehicle to steer the vehicle in accordance with the steering-model, whereby the vehicle is steered in a manner similar to how the operator manually steers the vehicle. |
| US09914472B2 |
Motor controller and electric power steering device using same
A motor controller includes, in a microcomputer, a voltage fall determiner determining whether a reference voltage falls from a normal value based on an Analog-to-Digital (A/D) conversion value of a second voltage from an A/D converter, and a corrector (i) calculating a correction coefficient based on the A/D conversion value of the second voltage from the A/D converter and (ii) correcting an A/D conversion value of an input voltage that is output from the A/D converter. A core of the microcomputer generates a control signal based on an input voltage A/D conversion value, when the voltage fall determiner determines that the reference voltage is equal to or higher than a normal reference value. The motor controller keeps its motor control accuracy in such manner, even when a fall of an A/D conversion reference voltage is observed. |
| US09914469B2 |
Infant carrier transport
Infant carriers are stably supported and transported by being positioned on a frame set on wheels. The frame may include an infant carrier holder with a floor with a ramp and sidewalls. The infant carrier holder may be integral with the frame or may be mounted to a mounting device that can be adjusted for mounting angle or height. A handle is provided to the frame at a position that is suitable for a person in a wheelchair to grasp the frame and move the transport. A handle suitable for a standing person to grasp the frame may optionally be provided. The transport permits a person that may have difficulty carrying or transporting an infant carrier to more easily transport the infant carrier in a standing or a seated position, the latter as may be the case with a wheelchair occupant. The transport may be fastened to the wheelchair. |
| US09914467B2 |
Attachment and support members for modular building structures
A clamp assembly is provided for securing to preexisting studs or support members. The clamp assembly comprises a compression fitting adapted to be secured to a plurality of different sized studs or wall supports, and further to support additional supports including, but not limited, horizontal support members. A support and movement device is further provided that is selectively connectable to clamp and support members of the disclosure. |
| US09914465B2 |
Top of rail resilient bar
An applicator for applying a friction modifying material to the surface of a rail is provided. The applicator comprises a resilient body for applying a composition to a surface of a rail. The resilient body comprises an outer impervious surface and defines a sealed passageway that extends through the resilient body for the composition to flow through; and an applicator support, wherein the resilient body is secured to the applicator support. A rail applicator assembly and methods for using the applicator are also provided. |
| US09914462B2 |
Preconditioning electrified vehicle subsystems based on weather forecasts
A method for preconditioning various subsystems of an electrified vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, scheduling preconditioning of a battery pack, an interior cabin, a transmission and an engine of the electrified vehicle prior to a next expected usage time based at least on a weather forecast. |
| US09914459B2 |
Vehicle drive control
A method for controlling a drive of a vehicle with at least one first axle having at least one mounted wheel. A drive torque is specified by a driver of the vehicle, and the first axle is driven by means of a first electric machine dependent on the drive torque. A second electric machine which is coupled to an internal combustion engine provides electrical energy for driving the first axle with the first electric machine. A respective control or target torque assigned to the second electric machine and the internal combustion engine is computed while taking into consideration the drive torque and machine parameters of at least the second electric machine. The second electric machine and the internal combustion engine are each regulated with respect to the assigned control torque or with respect to the assigned target torque. |
| US09914457B2 |
Method for setting a clutch torque
A method for setting a clutch torque between an engine and a drive of a vehicle during a starting process of the vehicle includes increasing the clutch torque during a first phase, limiting the clutch torque to a first torque value during the first phase, and further increasing the clutch torque in a second phase after an engine rotational speed reaches a rotational speed limit. |
| US09914453B2 |
Method for predicting the travel path of a motor vehicle and prediction apparatus
A method for predicting the expected travel path of a moving vehicle by numerical integration of a dynamic vehicle model using at least one rotational travel state and at least one longitudinal travel state is disclosed. To provide a prediction of the expected travel path, which does not depend on map information and provides the maximum possible accuracy even for non-steady-state travel states of a vehicle, time-related function rules for the rotational travel state φPre(t) and/or for the longitudinal travel state νPre(t) are determined, and values for the travel state concerned φPre, νPre are predicted at specific points in time by integration using said function rule φPre(t), νPre(t). In this process, the time-related function rule of the travel state concerned is determined by obtaining respective (rotational or longitudinal) input variables for at least two time-derivatives of the travel state concerned from measured values. |
| US09914452B1 |
Predicting trajectories of objects based on contextual information
Aspects of the disclosure relate to detecting and responding to objects in a vehicle's environment. For example, an object may be identified in a vehicle's environment, the object having a heading and location. A set of possible actions for the object may be generated using map information describing the vehicle's environment and the heading and location of the object. A set of possible future trajectories of the object may be generated based on the set of possible actions. A likelihood value of each trajectory of the set of possible future trajectories may be determined based on contextual information including a status of the detected object. A final future trajectory is determined based on the determined likelihood value for each trajectory of the set of possible future trajectories. The vehicle is then maneuvered in order to avoid the final future trajectory and the object. |
| US09914450B2 |
Apparatus and method for learning engine friction torque of hybrid vehicle
The present disclosure provides a technology of determining an engine friction torque even when idling of an engine is not performed, by providing a certain engine Revolutions per Minute (RPM) in stop state of the engine using Hybrid Starter & Generator (HSG) connected to an engine pulley. The present disclosure provides a technology of determining an accurate engine friction torque using a torque provided from the outside of an engine instead of a torque generated the engine itself. |
| US09914448B2 |
Control of multiple torque actuators across at least two controllers in a powertrain assembly
A powertrain assembly has multiple torque actuators. The assembly includes a first controller configured to control a first torque actuator and a second controller configured to control a second torque actuator. The first controller is configured to receive a signal from an input sensor and convert the signal into a torque demand. The second controller is configured to receive the torque demand from the first controller and determine respective optimal torque allocations for the first and second torque actuators based on the torque demand and a plurality of optimization factors. The first controller includes a processor and tangible, non-transitory memory on which is recorded instructions for executing a method of controlling the multiple torque actuators across the at least two controllers via a dynamic look-up table. The dynamic look-up table is populated by a plurality of stored torque production allocation values based on a respective plurality of torque requests. |
| US09914441B2 |
Braking distance control device
A braking distance control device employed for an electrically driven work vehicle includes a safety vehicle speed calculation unit that calculates a safety vehicle speed at which a braking distance provided by use of an electric brake device becomes less than or equal to a threshold value, based on gradient information, payload information, road surface friction information, vehicle speed information, and a braking torque characteristic of electric motors: a critical vehicle speed for deceleration calculation unit that calculates a critical vehicle speed for deceleration at which deceleration provided by use of the electric brake device becomes less than or equal to a threshold value; and an operation judgment unit 14 that judges a setting of notification, based on pedal operation amounts. |
| US09914439B2 |
Brake system having pedal simulator
A hydraulic booster brake system is provided. The system includes a pedal simulator capable of achieving an enhancement in backup braking performance and in design freedom of the pedal simulator. The system includes a main master cylinder that is connected to a brake pedal while being connected to the pedal simulator via the pedal-side hydraulic line, and a sub master cylinder that is connected to the brake pedal while being connected to the pedal simulator and a fluid reservoir via the pedal-side hydraulic line. A first simulator valve is installed at a portion of the pedal-side hydraulic line between the main master cylinder and the pedal simulator. A second simulator valve is installed at a portion of the pedal-side hydraulic line between the sub master cylinder and the fluid reservoir. |
| US09914438B2 |
Vehicle braking force controller
Provided is a vehicle braking force controller that can realize both improvement of passengers' riding comfort and feeling, and quick responsiveness, and that is excellent in stability against noise. The vehicle braking force controller provides a braking force command value in response to a stroke amount of a brake pedal operated by a driver, to a braking device which provides braking force to wheels. A stroke amount detection unit which detects a stroke amount inputted to the brake pedal is provided. A path-corresponding braking force command value changing unit is provided which changes the relationship between the stroke amount and the braking force command value determined based on the stroke amount, in response to an increase-decrease path that the stroke amount inputted from the brake pedal is following. |
| US09914437B2 |
Divergent inflation manifold attachment
A manifold for inflating tubeless tires that efficiently directs pressurized air to a void between a tire bead and a rim edge. Manifold is fan shaped with a center face and angled side faces. Side faces have a first plurality of apertures at a predetermined centerline and the center face has a second plurality of apertures that are offset from the predetermined centerline. The offset second plurality of air flow apertures are directed to the widest void between the tire bead and rim edge while the first plurality of air flow apertures are directed to the narrow void on either side of the widest void. A two contact point stop or rest assembly is used to abut against two points on the rim edge to provide and maintain a predetermined distance between the center face and the widest void and to provide an optimum angle of the manifold for inflation. |
| US09914428B2 |
Passenger restraint device for amusement rides
A passenger restraint device for amusement rides and a method for retaining at least one passenger by means of the restraint device. The device comprises at least one restraint element provided with at least one contact surface intended to be placed in contact with at least one part of the body of a passenger. The restraint element is movable between at least one open position, in which the restraint element is not in contact with the passenger and at least one closed position in which the restraint element is in contact with at least one part of the passenger's body.The restraint element comprises at least one sensor to detect a contact between the restraint element and at least one part of the body of the passenger, preferably a contact with a passenger's thighs. |
| US09914423B2 |
Side curtain airbag for vehicle
A side curtain airbag for a vehicle includes a serial main chamber that inflates and deploys along an interior side surface of the vehicle; a protruding chamber disposed at a front side of the main chamber to further protrude toward an interior of the vehicle relative to the main chamber; and a cutting line arranged between the main chamber and the protruding chamber to partially separate the protruding chamber from the main chamber such that the protruding chamber overlaps with a portion of the main chamber upon non-inflation of the airbag. In this configuration, upon a vehicle collision, the head portion of the occupant is prevented early from being ejected toward the front of the vehicle. |
| US09914422B2 |
Structure for deploying seat side airbag
A structure for deploying a side airbag installed in a seat of a vehicle is provided. The structure includes an interior pad is disposed adjacent to a first side of a side airbag and an exterior portion surrounded by an interior covering. An exterior pad is disposed adjacent to a second side of the side airbag and has an exterior portion surrounded by an exterior covering. An interior reinforcing fabric penetrates a pad aperture portion formed between the interior pad and the exterior pad and surrounds a first side of the side airbag. An exterior reinforcing fabric is integrally coupled to the exterior covering and surrounds the exterior portion of the exterior pad. The interior reinforcing fabric is spaced apart from the interior covering and disposed in a path different from a path of the interior covering. The collision performance is easily adjusted and production costs and weights are reduced. |
| US09914419B2 |
Radar mounting device
An exemplary radar mounting device for attaching a component to a vehicle body may include a resilient grommet secured within an opening formed in the component. The device may also have a stud for attachment to the vehicle body. The stud may have a ball portion received within the resilient grommet for attaching the component to the stud. In addition, the device may have a nut fastened to the stud to secure the component to the stud. |
| US09914415B2 |
Connectionless communication with interior vehicle components
A vehicle component may operate in a plurality of connectionless functional states including a watchdog state in which the component broadcasts advertisements indicating presence of the vehicle component to personal devices; a notify state in which the component broadcasts cycles of advertisements indicating available features of the component; and a process command state in which the component broadcasts current feature state advertisements responsive to command advertisements received from the personal devices. A personal device may operate in a plurality of connectionless functional states including an acquire interface state in which the personal device collects information indicative of component functions based on non-connectable advertisements from in-vehicle components; a display interface state in which the personal device provides a user interface of controls based on information collected during the acquire interface state; and a process command state in which the device broadcasts command advertisements responsive to operator input to the user interface. |
| US09914414B2 |
Fluid level indication for vehicle reservoirs
A system and method are provided for estimating a fluid level in a reservoir disposed in a vehicle compartment having a compartment cover. The method includes monitoring at least one operational parameter relating to the reservoir, monitoring a state of the compartment cover using a sensing device, detecting a triggering event based on the at least one operational parameter, the state of the compartment cover, or both, and in response to the triggering event, determining an estimate for an amount of fluid in the reservoir based on data related to the triggering event, and initiating a notification to a vehicle occupant when the estimated amount of fluid in the reservoir is less than or equal to a low level threshold. |
| US09914411B2 |
Secure attachment
An automobile license plate attachment device includes a wheel part that includes a slot located between two ridges at an outer circumference of the wheel part. A fastener attaches the wheel part over a license plate. An externally threaded structure is shaped to fit over and cover the wheel part when the wheel part is attached over the license plate. The externally threaded structure includes at least one screw hole into which a headless socket screw can be attached to extend into the slot of the wheel part. The headless socket screw holds the externally threaded structure to the license plate. An internally threaded structure with threads matched allows screwing the internally threaded structure on the externally threaded structure. The externally threaded structure includes a slot into which a tool may be placed to prevent the externally threaded structure from spinning around the wheel part when the internally threaded structure is screwed on and off the externally threaded structure. |
| US09914400B1 |
Rooftop cargo loader
A cargo loader including a base suitable to attach to a roof of a vehicle is disclosed. The cargo loader may include a linear guide having a first end and a second end. The first end of the linear guide is attached to the first portion of the base via a first rotational device. The second end of the linear guide is releasably attached to the second portion of the base. The cargo loader may include a cargo mount having first end and a second end. The first end of the cargo mount is unattached to the linear guide and the second end of the cargo mount is attached to the linear guide via a second rotational device. The cargo loader may include an energy transfer device attached to the second portion of the base and the cargo mount. |
| US09914399B2 |
Cargo management system and multifunction hook assembly
A multifunction hook assembly is provided for a motor vehicle. That multifunction hook assembly includes a housing having a recess and first and second pivoting hooks carried on the housing. The two pivoting hooks are displaceable between stowed positions received within the recess and deployed positions projecting from the recess. An improved cargo management system is also provided. That improved cargo management system incorporates the multifunction hook assembly. |
| US09914398B1 |
Vehicle storage compartment
A vehicle storage compartment includes a frame, a drawer within the frame, a pivoting door, and a linkage system interconnecting the frame, the drawer and the door such that pivot of the door causes sliding of the drawer. The linkage system can include a link having a door post and a drawer post respectively engageable with the door and a guide track on the drawer. The linkage system can also include a projection on the drawer engaging a rail. The door post of the link can be disengaged from the door for movement of the door to a fully-lowered position defined by a stop. The drawer post can be disengaged from the drawer for separation of the drawer from the frame. The link can pivot on a hinge pin and can be translated on the pin for engagement and disengagement of the door and drawer posts. |
| US09914397B2 |
Hitch-mounted collapsible stairs for vehicle
A hitch-mountable, collapsible stair assembly is disclosed for use in assisting mounting into a raised vehicle bed. The steps rotate between a generally vertical stowed position and a generally horizontal in-use position. The height of the steps above the ground is adjustable. The lower step can also be extended for ease of use. |
| US09914396B1 |
Easy-climb
An extendable ladder with hinge brackets specifically designed for the purpose of a person to have easier and safer access to a recreational vehicle roof. RV's have a permanently attached ladder on the rear of the vehicle that has to be climbed vertically, straight up which defies gravity. The hand rails and steps are small therefore making people feel very insecure and unsafe when climbing it. This invention overcomes that obstacle by giving people a firm ladder that reaches to the ground at an angle which makes it very easy to climb. The hinge bracket design creates a pivot affect that allows the two section extendable ladder to swing out at the bottom and extend downward to the ground, then the lower ladder can slide back up into the ladder rails and is positioned back against the RV. |
| US09914390B1 |
Vehicle shade assembly
A vehicle is provided which includes a headliner including a retaining member. A window and a shade assembly is positioned proximate the window. The shade assembly includes a housing and a shade. The shade is configured to deploy from the housing. An engaging member is positioned on the shade and is configured to couple with the retaining member. A photoluminescent structure is positioned on the shade. |
| US09914387B2 |
Cargo control cinch strap system
A cinch strap system for securing cargo to a dolly or other type of hand truck having a first and second strap. The first strap has opposing first and second loop ends. A first loop is on the first loop end of the first strap and secures at least two rings to the first strap. A second loop is on the second loop end of the first strap. The second strap is of longer length than the first strap and includes a second strap loop on one end of the second strap. The end of the second strap opposing the second strap loop is a free end. |
| US09914374B2 |
Easy-entry system and vehicle seat with an integrated easy-entry system
An easy-entry system (EE) for a vehicle seat (1) with a backrest (1.1) and a seat cushion (1.2), in arrangement with a fitting (2) for adjusting the inclination of the backrest (1.1) relative to the seat cushion (1.2) at least within a comfort range and optionally with an extended comfort function for positioning the backrest (1.1) beyond an easy-entry position into a loading floor position. The system includes, for initiating an easy-entry function, at least one actuating lever (4) which is coupled via at least one tension element (6) to an unlocking lever (8) for unlocking the inclination adjustment of the backrest (1.1). A translatory movement of the tension element (6) is transformed by means of a sliding element (7.2) of a transmission arrangement (7) into a rotatory movement of the unlocking lever (8) for opening the fitting (2). |
| US09914372B2 |
Motor vehicle seat arrangement
A motor vehicle seat arrangement is provided with two spaced apart seat rails, to which two spaced apart cross profiles are rigidly fastened. A seat structure is joined with the cross profiles. |
| US09914370B2 |
Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat including: a connection mechanism; a seat cushion connected to an interior structure of a vehicle via the connection mechanism and configured to be displaced between a first state and a second state at which the seat cushion is arranged at a position closer to a front part-side of the vehicle than at the first state; and a seat back, wherein a sitting surface of the seat cushion at the first state gradually inclines upwardly from the rear of the seat towards the front of the seat, and wherein the connection mechanism is configured to displace the seat cushion to the second state and move a front part-side of the seat cushion more downwardly than at the first state, whereby the sitting surface of the seat cushion is made more horizontal at the second state than at the first state. |
| US09914366B2 |
System and method to determine the state of charge of a battery using magnetostriction to detect magnetic response of battery material
One exemplary embodiment includes a method including providing a battery, producing a first magnetic field so that a second magnetic field is induced in the battery, sensing a magnetic field resulting from the interaction of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field, utilizing the sensed net magnetic field to determine the state of charge of the battery. |
| US09914361B2 |
Vehicle with AC-to-DC inverter system for vehicle-to-grid power integration
Vehicles that are capable of connecting to the AC grid are described that comprise a prime mover and at least one motor generator. In one embodiment, a vehicle may be constructed as a plug-in hybrid system and using the powertrain under controller instruction to either place power on an AC power line (to service AC grids) or to draw power from the AC power line to add electrical energy to the batteries on the vehicle. In some aspects, vehicles may test whether the power needed to service the AC power line may be satisfied by the on-vehicle batteries or, if not, whether and how much power to extract from the prime mover. In some aspects, vehicles may have a thermal management system on board to dynamically supply desired heat dissipation for the powertrain, if the powertrain is using the prime mover to supply power to the AC grid. |
| US09914359B2 |
Vehicle control system
A vehicle can be controlled based on feedback from a driver of the vehicle when a mobile device is connected to a computer system. A profile for a driver can be used. The system can receive data about the driver from the mobile device. The data and answers can be sent to a natural language processing (NLP) system for analysis. The NLP system can return a determination that the user is cognitively disengaged, and thus unable to safely drive the vehicle. The system can then control the vehicle. |
| US09914356B2 |
Hydrostatic transmission with spool valve driven motor
A center section/motor sub-assembly for use in a hydrostatic transmission includes a center section having a pump running face for interfacing with a pump and a motor running face for interfacing with a motor, and a bore extending laterally through the center section from the motor running face. A spool valve is received in the bore and includes a fluid pathway for providing fluid communication between the pump running face and the motor running face. The sub-assembly further includes a motor having a rotor and a motor stator secured to the center section adjacent to the motor running face in a manner that permits rotation of the rotor. The center section is configured for the hydraulic separating forces of the motor to be reacted only into the center section. A hydrostatic transmission includes the sub-assembly enclosed by a housing, in combination with a pump and output shaft. |
| US09914351B2 |
Air flap device for vehicle
Disclosed is an air flap device for a vehicle which includes left and right flap units which are formed of a combination of a plurality of opposite flaps rotatably installed at left and right sides, wherein the left and right flap units are obliquely installed facing each other in such a way that the opposite side ends thereof protrude forward; a link which interconnects the other side ends of the plurality of flaps of the outer sides of the left and right flap units; and a driving force transfer unit which is installed between the left and right flap units and interconnects a predetermined pair of opposite left and right flaps of the left and right flap units. |
| US09914350B1 |
Drive device
A drive mechanism includes a pair of driven axles, a center section and a pump and a motor rotatably disposed on one side of the center section. A clutch mechanism is located adjacent an opposite side of the center section to drive the pair of axles. The clutch includes at least one clutch fork disposed adjacent to the center section and being rotatable along an axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the axes of rotation of the pump input shaft and motor output shaft, and also perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the axles. |
| US09914345B2 |
Wind protection device on a closable roof opening portion of a motor vehicle
A wind protection device having a curved wind deflection member on which a flexible wind protection structure is retained and which has at least one lateral wind deflection arm which can be displaced by means of a guiding mechanism in the vertical direction and in the longitudinal direction of the openable roof portion between a lower rest position and an upwardly deployed operating position. The guiding mechanism includes a linear force guide having a curved guiding path along which the wind deflection arm can be displaced in the longitudinal and vertical direction relative to the roof opening portion. The wind deflection arm is associated with at least one additional supporting surface which is supported on a stationary sliding surface extending in parallel to the guiding path. |
| US09914344B1 |
Tonneau assemblies and methods of use and manufacture thereof
Some embodiments are directed to a tonneau assembly including a tonneau sheet configured to cover at least a part of an exposed area of a vehicle, and a rail assembly including a front rail connected to the tonneau sheet, a rear rail, and a pair of longitudinally extending side rails. The rear rail is pivotable between an open position that uncovers part of the exposed area of the vehicle, and a closed position that covers the part of the exposed area. The rear rail is connected to the tonneau sheet to apply a longitudinal tensioning force as the rear rail is pivoted from the open position to the closed position. The tonneau assembly includes a lateral tensioning assembly that is configured to apply a lateral tensioning force that is perpendicular to the longitudinal force as the rear rail is pivoted from the open position to the closed position. |
| US09914340B1 |
Vehicle cowl attachment
A vehicle includes a vehicle body, a cowl and a first cowl attachment. The vehicle body defines an engine compartment and a passenger compartment that is located rearward of the engine compartment. The cowl includes a top wall extending in a vehicle lateral direction between the engine and passenger compartments. The top wall has a first end wall at a first end and a second end wall at a second end. The first end wall has a plurality of first air receiving apertures. The first cowl attachment has a baffle wall part and a cowl extension part. The first cowl attachment is fixedly attached to the first end wall such that the baffle wall part is adjacent to the air receiving apertures. The cowl extension part extends in a vehicle lateral direction from the baffle wall part. |
| US09914330B2 |
Run flat tire and method for producing same
A run flat tire having a side reinforcing rubber part is disclosed. The side reinforcing rubber part is formed by a rubber composition having a ratio (M50H/M50N) of tensile stress (M50H) in 50% elongation at a measurement temperature of 100° C. to tensile stress (M50N) in 50% elongation at a measurement temperature of 23° C. of from 1.0 to 1.3. Ratio (tb10/tp10) of 10% vulcanization time (tb10) at a vulcanization temperature of 160° C. of a rubber composition for a bead filler to 10% vulcanization time (tp10) at a vulcanization temperature of 160° C. of a rubber composition for a covering rubber of a carcass ply is from 0.5 to 1.0. |
| US09914329B2 |
Tyre for heavy load vehicle wheels
A tire includes a tread provided with blocks formed among substantially longitudinal and transverse grooves, wherein among the blocks particularly broad intersections are formed, for example, by staggering substantially transverse grooves of circumferential rows axially in side-by-side relationship, of blocks with rounded corners, and wherein, inside such broad intersections, a stocky-shaped protrusion is arranged which has a lateral stiffness greater than the lateral stiffness of the surrounding blocks. |
| US09914328B2 |
Inflatable object provided with a gas-tight layer containing a thermoplastic elastomer and a hydrocarbon-based resin
A pneumatic object is provided with a layer that is airtight to inflation gases. The layer includes an elastomer composition having at least a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), as a sole elastomer or as a predominant elastomer by weight, and a hydrocarbon resin. A glass transition temperature of the hydrocarbon resin is above 0° C. The TPE is a copolymer that includes at least a central polyisobutylene block. Optionally, the elastomer composition includes an extender oil. Also optionally, the elastomer composition includes a platy filler selected from a group that includes graphites and phyllosilicates, such as micas, clays, and talcs. The pneumatic object may be an inner tube or a pneumatic tyre for a motor vehicle. |
| US09914319B2 |
Apparatus for turning page and method for turning page
An apparatus which turns a page of an open book includes a tuning mechanism, a drive unit and a control unit. The turning mechanism brings a predetermined member into contact with a page at a departure position and separates the page from the predetermined member at a destination position. The page is moved with the predetermined member. The drive unit drives the turning mechanism to make the predetermined member perform a to-and-fro movement between the departure position and the destination position. The control unit which controls the drive unit to temporarily stop the movement of the predetermined member on a way to the destination position from the departure position. |
| US09914314B2 |
Printer
In accordance with an embodiment, a printer comprises a housing section and a printer section. The housing section houses a roll-like image receiving medium. The printer section comprises a print head, a platen and a discharge section. The print head prints information on the image receiving medium fed from the housing section. The platen is arranged opposite to the print head and rotates around a rotating shaft. The discharge section discharges the image receiving medium passing through a space between the print head and the platen. The printer section rotates around the rotating shaft independent of the platen. |
| US09914312B2 |
Recording apparatus with moveable medium pressing member
A printer includes a head that is positioned at a plurality of recording positions by moving in a direction which is orthogonal to a transport direction of a sheet and a pressing member that has a medium guide surface which is able to face the sheet, in which when the head is positioned, the medium guide surface is positioned below the head surface, and during maintenance of the head, the medium guide surface is positioned above the head surface. |
| US09914311B2 |
Image formation apparatus and image formation method
An image formation apparatus includes: a feeder that feeds a label sheet, having a long base sheet and labels detachably adhered to the base sheet at a predetermined interval in a longitudinal direction thereof, to a conveyance path; a conveyance member that conveys the fed label sheet along the conveyance path; a detector that is placed along the conveyance path and that detects a position of at least one of the labels on the label sheet being conveyed; an image formation unit that is placed downstream of the detector in a conveyance direction and that forms an image on the label detected by the detector; and a controller that controls the conveyance member, the detector, and the image formation unit. The controller switches the detector between a constant light emission operation of emitting the detection light constantly and an intermittent light emission operation of emitting the detection light intermittently. |
| US09914309B2 |
Method and apparatus for single-pass failed nozzle compensation
Compensation algorithms are applied to hide failed nozzles or, at least, reduce the objectionable effect of such nozzles in a printed image. Once a failed nozzle or under-performing nozzle is detected in a single-pass printing system, it is shut-off and the image data that was intended to be printed by this nozzle is redistributed to its neighboring nozzles. Embodiments of the invention use of a 1-D look-up table and stochastically distribute the duty cycle to each neighboring nozzle. In this way, failed nozzles are effectively hidden in the final print. |
| US09914304B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a carriage including a recording head that performs recording on a medium, the carriage being movable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a control portion that controls the recording head and the carriage. The carriage has a first disposal section in which a first cartridge that supplies a liquid to the recording head is disposed and a second disposal section in which a second cartridge that does not supply a liquid to the recording head is disposed. The first cartridge includes a first information holder that holds information about the first cartridge. The second cartridge includes a second information holder that holds information about the second cartridge. The control portion executes a control of performing recording by using only the liquid contained in the first cartridge on the basis of the information held by the second information holder. |
| US09914295B2 |
Method for manufacturing structure
A method for manufacturing a structure having a substrate in which holes are formed and a photosensitive resin layer provided on the substrate in such a manner as to cover at least a part of the holes includes a process of preparing a substrate in which holes formed by a surface in which a wavelike shape is formed and a photosensitive resin layer provided on the substrate in such a manner as to cover at least a part of the holes and an exposure process of exposing the photosensitive resin layer on the substrate. |
| US09914293B2 |
System for preparing and producing a stamp plate
The invention describes a system for preparing and producing a stamp plate, comprising at least one input device, a control device, and a processing device, with a processing insert and apertures arranged therein. The processing device, in particular a laser plotter, comprises a processing table, which is designed to accommodate and position the processing insert, in particular a tray or jig for at least one stamp plate blank, wherein a removal aid is allocated to at least one aperture of the processing insert, and/or this aperture preferably comprises means for guiding and positioning the insert. In particular the stamp plate blank and/or the workpiece. In order to attain an even surface of a base material of the stamp plate blank, for further processing the base material is positioned on a base plate in a removable manner. |
| US09914292B2 |
Additive manufacturing device
Disclosed is an additive manufacturing device that facilitates the manufacturing of relatively large 3D objects at a short time. The device uses radiation-curable resin and radiation curing system. Layer shaping members are disclosed to provide both for shorter manufacturing time of an object, minimizing waste of resin and reduction of weight. Curing radiation sources are also designed to minimizing waste of resin and manufacturing time. |
| US09914290B2 |
Peeling bar for peeling polarizing film from panel, peeling apparatus and peeling method using the same
The present invention relates to a peeling bar, apparatus, and method for peeling a polarizing film from a panel. This invention can minimize friction between the peeling bar and the polarizing film since the peeled polarizing film is in contact with a front part of the peeling bar. Also, in order to equalize tension applied to the polarizing film in a peeling process, this invention makes both ends of the polarizing film closely adhere to the peeling bar.According to this invention, fracture of the polarizing film is prevented, and thereby the polarizing film can be stably peeled from the panel without fracture. |
| US09914285B2 |
Decorative sheet and decorative resin molded article obtained using same
A decorative sheet which comprises, on a base film layer, a second picture layer that is partially provided and a surface protective layer that is present on and in contact with the second picture layer and covers the entire surface of the base film layer including the region where the second picture layer is formed and the region where the second picture layer is not formed. The decorative sheet is characterized in that: a binder resin for a second picture ink that constitutes the second picture layer is a thermoplastic resin; the surface protective layer is formed of a crosslinking-cured product of an ionizing radiation curable resin composition that contains a polycarbonate (meth)acrylate and/or an acrylic silicone (meth)acrylate; and a low gloss pattern layer that has a low luster region is formed in the surface protective layer right above the second picture layer by the interaction between the ionizing radiation curable resin and the thermoplastic resin. A decorative resin molded article which is obtained using the decorative sheet. |
| US09914270B2 |
Device and method of manufacturing omega stringers
An apparatus for manufacturing composite stringers from a composite laminate comprising a male mold, a main caul plate, two fixed female mold halves, two secondary movable caul plates and a retention device. The main caul plate is located below the male mold, the female mold halves are located at both sides of the main caul plate and the secondary movable caul plates, each of them located respectively over each one of the two female mold halves. The male mold, the main caul plate, the two female mold halves and the two secondary caul plates are non-developable surfaces. The retention device keeps each secondary movable caul plate at a predetermined distance of its respective female mold half. |
| US09914268B2 |
Systems and methods for defining a surface contour of a layered charge of material
Systems and methods for defining a surface contour of a layered charge of material are disclosed herein. The systems include a forming die, which includes a forming surface shaped to define a desired surface contour of the layered charge, and a fluidly actuated support, which includes a support surface that is adjacent to the forming surface and located to support the layered charge. The systems further include a vacuum bag that at least partially defines an enclosed volume and a vacuum source configured to selectively apply a vacuum to the enclosed volume. The methods include locating the layered charge on the forming surface and on the support surface, covering the layered charge with the vacuum bag to define the enclosed volume, applying the vacuum to the enclosed volume, compressing the fluidly actuated support, translating the support surface, and deforming the layered charge to define the desired surface contour. |
| US09914264B2 |
System and method for missing ejector correction in three-dimensional object printing by waveform adjustment
A method for compensating for inoperative ejectors in a three-dimensional object printer has been developed. A printer detects an inoperative ejector in a printhead. The printer identifies functional ejectors that print at locations adjacent to locations where the inoperative ejector fails to print a drop. The printer modifies firing signals for the functional ejectors so those ejectors print drops having an increased drop volume at the locations adjacent to locations where the inoperative ejector fails to print a drop. The printer prints a first layer of material drops using the modified firing signals. The printer advances the printhead in the cross-process direction between layers so that locations where the inoperative ejector fails do print a drop do not coincide between layers. |
| US09914255B2 |
Method for making multiple durometer seals
Method for making multiple durometer bulb seals and any other types of multiple durometer seals and moldings includes cooling separately at least one structural member and at least one sealing portion, which have different durometers and shapes. At least a first extrusion is drawn through an extruder, forming a structural member profile and the extruded material is pulled along a longitudinal axis to a first calibrator device and first cooling tank to cool the structural member profile to a predetermined temperature. Cooling medium directly contacts the outer and inner surfaces of the first profile. Downstream, the sealing portion is extruded and affixed onto the cooled structural member and pulled further downstream to a second calibrator device and through a second cooling tank to cool the final profile a predetermined amount. Disparity in cooling expansion and cooling differential between the multiple durometers and shapes is avoided or overcome. |
| US09914243B2 |
Mold base material, production method for mold base material, mold production method, and mold
A mold base of an embodiment is a mold base for use in manufacture of a mold that has a porous alumina layer over its surface, including: a base; and an aluminum alloy layer provided on the base, wherein the aluminum alloy layer contains aluminum, a non-aluminum metal element, and nitrogen. The aluminum alloy layer of the mold base of an embodiment of the present invention has high specularity. |
| US09914241B2 |
Batch-style bottom-discharge rotary debarker
Disclosed herein are embodiments of batch-style bottom-discharge rotary debarkers for removing bark from a batch of logs in a bin and discharging debarked logs from a bottom of the bin. In some embodiments, the bin includes four walls and an opening in its bottom. In some embodiments, the debarkers include a plurality of rotors, a plurality of chutes, and a plurality of conveyor belt systems for carrying bark and logs away from the bin. In some embodiments, the debarkers include an internal gate which can be moved between a debarking configuration and an unloading configuration. |
| US09914239B2 |
User interface system in a table saw
A user interface device for a saw is mounted to an exterior of a housing in the saw. The user interface device includes a light emitting diode (LED) mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB), an antenna formed on the PCB, an optically opaque member with a first opening and a second opening, the first opening aligned with the LED, an optically translucent member engaging the second opening of the optically opaque member, and a base member connected to the PCB, optically opaque member, and optically translucent member, the base member being configured to be mounted to an exterior of a housing of the saw. |
| US09914237B2 |
Apparatus for slicing food products
An apparatus for slicing food products, in particular a high-performance slicer, comprises a product feed which defines a feed plane and by means of which the products are fed along the feed plane in a feed direction to a cutting plane which is disposed in a slicing region and in which a cutting blade moves, in particular in a rotating and/or revolving manner, said cutting blade cooperating with a cutting edge which in particular extends in parallel with the feed plane and perpendicular to the feed direction to cut off slices from the products. The cutting apparatus additionally comprises a detection device for radiation reflected from the slicing region and an evaluation device for evaluating the detected radiation and an illumination device for illuminating the slicing region which is arranged for the at least substantially frontal illumination of the product end face in the half-space disposed in front of the slicing region and above the feed plane and comprises at least one radiation source ad well as a diaphragm arrangement associated therewith which defines a plurality of elongate illumination radiation paths which are optically separate from one another, which each extend in the direction of the slicing region and which are arranged adjacent to one another. |
| US09914234B2 |
Multilateral cutter
The present invention provides a perforating station comprising two or more discrete perforating stations, the stations synchronized with one another to cut a line of perforations across a web, such as a web of tissue paper, moving at high speeds. By providing two or more synchronized perforating stations the perforating station may increase the number of impacts per minute compared to prior art perforating devices. |
| US09914231B2 |
Device for cutting extruded plastic profiles to length
A device for cutting a preferably thick-walled, extruded pipe to length, has at least one cutting tool and a receiving unit for the cutting tool. The cutting tool is radially movable in relation to the extrusion axis, is rotatable via a further component about the pipe to be cut to length, in order to cut the pipe to length, and is in operative connection with a ring element, which ring element can be moved via an axial drive, and the depth of penetration of the cutting tool and the path of movement can be defined using an adjustment unit. The depth of penetration of the cutting tool and the path of movement can be defined via the axial drive, wherein toothed rails can be moved more or less in order to achieve the desired depth of penetration. |
| US09914230B2 |
Production of superabsorbent polymers on a continuous belt reactor
The invention relates to the production of superabsorbent polymers on a continuous belt reactor, comprising at least one rotating knife that cuts the formed polymer gel at the end of the continuous belt reactor, wherein the length of the cutting edge is at least 1 cm and the cutting edge is non-parallel to the rotation axis. |
| US09914229B2 |
Produce slicer
Produce slicers for slicing produce include a frame. A blade assembly is removably and interchangeably received within the frame. A pusher head is removably and interchangeably received within the frame. The produce slicer includes a cover, at least one target ring in the cover defines a first target area. The blade assembly includes at least one blade set with a first frame bar and a second frame bar and a plurality of blades extend therebetween. The pusher head includes a pusher head body and at least one produce pusher with a plurality of fins extending in a direction away from the pusher head body. |
| US09914226B2 |
Bidirectional pivoting joint, and a holding and positioning device which comprises a plurality of said pivoting joints
A bidirectional pivoting joint comprises pivoting elements which are rotatable relative to one another, specifically in a coaxial arrangement, a cylindrical outer body and a cylindrical inner body and a locking device optionally locking and releasing the rotational movement. The locking device has an annular space between the outer body and the inner body. Provided between annular space surfaces, specifically an inner surface of the outer body and an outer surface of the inner body are radially narrowing and, on the other hand, radially wider, peripheral regions in alternating arrangement. Arranged in the annular space are at least two clamping members which are each adjustable in cross-section in the peripheral direction (u) of the annular space. In a holding state, each clamping member has a first said cross-section and lies in the narrowing peripheral regions against the outer body and the inner body. By this means, a self-holding clamping connection is established which blocks the relative rotational movement between the outer body and the inner body in each rotation direction (d). In a releasing state, each clamping member has a second said cross-section by means of which the clamping connection is released in order to free the rotational movement. An actuating device of the pivoting joint is equipped with an actuating means which acts on the clamping members to establish, firstly, the holding state and, secondly, the releasing state. A holding and positioning device comprises a plurality of said pivoting joints. |
| US09914222B2 |
Information processing apparatus, control method thereof, and computer readable storage medium that calculate an accuracy of correspondence between a model feature and a measurement data feature and collate, based on the accuracy, a geometric model and an object in an image
An information processing apparatus predicts, based on a geometric model of an object to be measured, an image degradation of the object in an image in which the object is captured by a capturing device. Furthermore, the information processing apparatus searches a two-dimensional image in which the object is captured by the capturing device for a measurement data feature that corresponds to a model feature of the geometric model, and evaluates, using the two-dimensional image, an image degradation with respect to the found measurement data feature. The information processing apparatus calculates, based on the predicted image degradation and the evaluated image degradation, the accuracy of the correspondence between the model feature and the measurement data feature, and collates, based on this accuracy, the geometric model and the object in the two-dimensional image. |
| US09914216B2 |
Robot control with improved safety
For controlling a robot in a safe way, a highest voltage required for a desired robot movement is calculated. A voltage level in a DC-bus is set on the basis of the highest voltage, and current is supplied to a motor at a robot axis from the DC-bus. By limiting the voltage level in the DC-bus to correspond to an actual need for a desired robot movement at each instant unnecessary fast robot movements are prevented even in the event that an inverter controlling motor currents would by mistake attempt to drive the motor faster than desired by the operator. |
| US09914215B2 |
Robot control apparatus and robot system
In order to set control with a high degree of freedom while taking into account a time response waveform, a robot control apparatus includes a control section that acquires a driving position of a driving section that drives a robot and a detection value of an operation force operating on the robot detected by a force detector, and controls the driving section based on the detection value, a first setting value, and a second setting value; a first display section that displays a detection waveform that is a time response waveform of the detection value; a second display section that displays a storage waveform that is a time response waveform of the operation force stored in a storage medium in advance; and a receiving section that receives setting of at least the second setting value. |
| US09914211B2 |
Hand-guided automated positioning device controller
An automated positioning device and associated method for use in a medical procedure is provided. The automated positioning device comprises a computing device having a processor coupled to a memory, a multi-joint positioning arm electrically coupled to the computing device and controlled by the computing device, and a sensor module attached to the multi-joint positioning arm and providing a proximity signal to the computing device indicating proximity of a target. The computing device provides a control signal to the multi-joint positioning arm to move the multi-joint positioning arm in response to the proximity signal. |
| US09914209B2 |
Tool box storage assembly
A storage assembly 10 which has a plurality of unique storage components 12, 14, and 800 which may be selectively connected in order to provide an optimal storage solution for a wide variety of applications. |
| US09914208B2 |
Implement organizer
Various embodiments are directed to an implement organizer configured for storage of various implements (e.g., tools, craft supplies, utensils, and/or the like) for easy access. Various embodiments comprise a base portion; a plurality of walls extending vertically away from a perimeter of the base portion to define an interior portion; and a flexible liner covering the interior and exterior surfaces of the plurality of walls. At least one of the walls defines an access opening extending through the at least one wall and a portion of the flexible liner covering the exterior surface of the wall such that the access opening permits access to a volume between the interior surface of the wall and a portion of the flexible liner covering the interior surface of the wall. |
| US09914207B2 |
Socket holding frame
A socket holding frame has a track base and at least one positioning mount. The track base has a bottom panel and a slide rail. The bottom panel has at least one first engaging segment formed on a top surface of the bottom panel. The at least one positioning mount is slidably and rotatably mounted on the track base, and each one of the at least one positioning mount has a sliding seat and an extending element. The sliding seat is slidably and rotatably mounted in the slide rail and has multiple second engaging segments. The multiple second engaging segments selectively engage with the at least one first engaging segment on the bottom panel. The extending element is formed on the sliding seat and extends out of the slide rail. |
| US09914204B2 |
Power tools and hand operated electrical devices
A power tool (10) comprises a motor for driving a driven element of the power tool (10) and a handle section (12), wherein the power tool (10) incorporates first and second pressure sensitive switches (18,20) operable to control operation of the motor. |
| US09914203B2 |
Connectable tool assembly
A tool assembly including a hammer to which a secondary tool, such as a dual-ended pry bar, is connectable. The hammer and the secondary tool are connectable via a slidable locking mechanism, including a detent pin that engages with a corresponding slot on a rail disposed on the secondary tool. One embodiment of the secondary tool includes multiple rails, which allows for the secondary tool to be attached to the hammer in multiple different orientations. The different orientations in which the secondary tool can be connected to the hammer allows for the first working end of the secondary tool or the second working end of the tool to be used alternatively as needed. |
| US09914194B2 |
Method and device for grinding metal annular member
Provided is a grinding method capable of preventing variation in the outer diameter of a processed object 1 at the completion of grinding regardless of change in the amount of elastic deformation of the processed object 1 based on the change in the cutting ability of a grindstone 4. The outer diameter D of the processed object 1 during grinding is measured by gauge heads 5 in process. Plural target values Di that differ from each other are set for the outer diameter D of the processed object 1, and first threshold values are set for the rate of change of the outer diameter D of the processed object for each of these target values Di. Spark out is started when the outer diameter D of the processed object 1 becomes equal to a target value Di and the absolute value of the rate of change v is greater than a first threshold value that corresponds to the target value Di. |
| US09914191B2 |
Chamfering of laminate layers
A method of machining a fibrous sheet for a composite structure is described. The sheet comprises a resin matrix having a glass transition temperature, wherein the method comprises cooling the sheet substantially to maintain the temperature of the matrix below its glass transition temperature during machining. |
| US09914189B2 |
Machine tool having a workpiece changing device
A machine tool for machining workpieces, wherein the machine tool has at least one first spindle assembly with at least one working spindle on which a machining tool for workpiece machining is arrangeable, wherein the machine tool has a workpiece holding device for holding workpieces for the purpose of workpiece machining by way of the machining tool, wherein the machine tool has a guide arrangement for the relative positioning of the workpiece holding device holding the workpieces and the first spindle assembly for workpiece machining, wherein the guide arrangement comprises a workpiece-holder guide for guiding the workpiece holding device so as to position a workpiece holder holding the workpieces relative to the first spindle assembly. |
| US09914186B2 |
Water jet peening device
The water jet peening device of the present invention is provided with: a swiveling mechanism for swiveling a spray nozzle in the horizontal direction centered on a positioning member that is positioned at the upper end of an instrumentation tube support; a lift mechanism for raising and lowering the spray nozzle in the vertical direction with respect to the positioning member that is positioned at the upper end of the instrumentation tube support; and a rotation mechanism for supporting the spray nozzle so as to be able to rotate centered on a downward-inclined rotation shaft center on the positioning member end of the vertical direction, disposing a spray port aimed toward the side of the rotation shaft center in a direction that is at a slant from the rotation shaft center, and rotating the spray nozzle centered on the rotation shaft center. |
| US09914185B2 |
Aluminum alloy brazing sheet
An aluminum alloy brazing sheet makes it possible to inexpensively braze aluminum in a nitrogen gas furnace without using flux and a toxic element. The aluminum alloy brazing sheet is used for brazing aluminum in an inert gas atmosphere without using flux, and includes a core material and a filler metal, one side or each side of the core material being clad with the filler metal, the core material being formed of an aluminum alloy that includes 0.2 to 1.3 mass % of Mg, and the filler metal including 6 to 13 mass % of Si and 0.004 to 0.1 mass % of Li, with the balance being aluminum and unavoidable impurities. |
| US09914183B2 |
Laser machining device and laser machining method
A laser processing device converges laser light at an object to be processed so as to form a modified region within the object along a line to cut. The laser processing device comprises a laser light source emitting the laser light, a spatial light modulator modulating the laser light emitted from the laser light source, and a converging optical system converging the laser light modulated by the spatial light modulator at the object. The spatial light modulator displays an axicon lens pattern as a modulation pattern so as to form converging points at a plurality of positions juxtaposed close to each other along a laser light irradiation direction. |
| US09914180B2 |
Method for producing and/or processing a gear and gear cutting machine
The invention concerns a method to generate and/or machine gear teeth on a workpiece, wherein the workpiece is subjected to a movement from a first location where the workpiece, while being held by a clamping device connected to a workpiece spindle, is brought into machining engagement with a first tool, to a second location where the work piece, while remaining in its clamped condition, is brought into machining engagement with a second tool, wherein prior to performing the movement, the connection between the clamping device and the workpiece spindle is released, and after the movement, the clamping device is connected to another workpiece spindle for the machining engagement with the second tool. |
| US09914178B2 |
Drilling tool and method for modifying a blind hole
The present invention relates to a drilling tool and method for modifying a blind hole in a blade root insert of a wind turbine. The invention further relates to an apparatus and method for cleaning a blind hole. The method for modifying a blind hole comprises: removing a blade screw located in the blind hole, inserting a drilling tool into the blind hole, fixing the drilling tool in a drill, recessing the blind hole by a predetermined depth, with a maximum diameter of the end section and of the hole bottom after recessing being smaller than or equal to a diameter of the end section prior to recessing and a transition from the end section to the hole bottom being round after recessing, removing the drilling tool and the drill, mounting the blade screw in the modified blind hole. |
| US09914174B2 |
Lathe
A lathe (1) with a simple construction that is capable of making the relative displacement of a headstock (2) and tool rest (3) due to thermal deformation smaller.The lathe (1) comprises: a head including a headstock attaching section (51), and a slide attaching section (52) which has a portion with a height lower than the headstock attaching section; a headstock (2) attached to the headstock attaching section (51); a slide section (6) attached to the slide attaching section (52); and a tool rest (2) provided laterally to the headstock (3) and attached to the slide section (6).The headstock (2) is attached to the headstock attaching section (51) slanted to the tool rest side with respect to the direction in which the headstock (2) and the tool rest (3) are lined up. |
| US09914171B2 |
Manufacturing method
The present invention provides a method of forming a leading edge for an aerofoil component e.g. an aerofoil blade. The method comprises forming a pre-form having a precursor edge and processing said precursor edge to form the leading edge. The pre-form is formed using metal injection molding. The leading edge may have an elliptical profile. |
| US09914166B2 |
Rack, method for manufacturing rack, and device for manufacturing rack
Provided are a manufacturing method and manufacturing device that allow the depth of rack teeth to be adequately maintained across the axial direction. A stepped surface (47) is provided on one surface in the axial direction of a pressure punch (46) that moves together with a teeth-forming punch (32). The teeth-forming punch (32) is displaced downward and rack teeth are formed on the upper surface of an intermediate material (23). At the same time, the surface on the end in the axial direction of the intermediate material (23) is pressed in the axial direction by a movable die (41a) due to the engagement between the stepped surface (47) and the surface on the other side in the axial direction of the movable die (41a). |
| US09914163B2 |
Method of sheet forming
A method of sheet forming manufactures a sheet-formed part that is formed in an L-shape as viewed in a plan view and includes a top portion, side wall portions formed on the respective both sides of the top portion, and flange portions contiguously formed with the respective side wall portions, by sheet-forming a metal sheet with the a sheet forming tool. The method includes: a first sheet forming process in which the metal sheet is arranged on a first sheet forming tool including a first punch, a first die, a first blank holder, and a pad; and a second sheet forming process in which the first sheet-formed part formed is sheet-formed into a second sheet-formed part having a top portion and a side wall portion whose shapes are identical with those of the sheet-formed part, with a second sheet forming tool having a second punch and a second die. |
| US09914161B2 |
Coil shaping device and coil shaping method
A coil shaping device includes a plurality of rollers having an outer circumference formed with a concave groove having an arc-shaped cross section, a roller moving mechanism making the rollers move between a gripping position, at the gripping position the plurality of rollers grips the coil from surroundings of the coil, and a separating position, at the separating position the plurality of rollers is separated from the coil, and a rolling movement mechanism making the plurality of rollers positioned in the gripping position move, by the plurality of rollers being rolled in a longitudinal direction of the coil. |
| US09914160B2 |
Methods for forming a work roll and a dulled gloss finish on a metal substrate
This application discloses methods of preparing a work roll for applying a dulled gloss finish on a metal substrate surface. The resulting finish has a fairly uniform glossiness with a slightly matted appearance and with minimal directionality. The work rolls have an Ra value of from 0.2 to 0.4 μm and an Rz value of less than 3.0 μm. Methods of forming a dulled gloss finish on a metal substrate are also described herein. |
| US09914158B2 |
Systems and methods for treating contaminated materials
Systems for treating contaminated soil are described herein. One system includes a soil chamber that includes one or more walls and at least one floor; at least one heater attached to or inside of at least one of the walls; and at least one heater coupled to or in the floor. Two or more of the walls enclose an interior of the soil chamber. At least one of the walls is configured to move between a closed position during heating of the soil chamber, and an open position that allows a soil moving vehicle to access an interior of the soil chamber to provide or remove soil to and from the soil chamber. At least one wall heater and at least one floor heater provide heat that transfers from the heaters to the contaminated soil in the soil chamber. |
| US09914152B2 |
Polytetrafluoroethylene thin film with polydopamine adhesive layer
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of fabricating a low friction, wear resistant, polydopamine/polytetrafluoroethylene layered film. In one embodiment, the method comprises the deposition of a polydopamine film on a stainless steel substrate through an oxidative polymerization process, the deposition of a polytetrafluoroethylene nanoparticle film on top of the polydopamine film, and heat treating the layered film to remove moisture and fuse the particles together. |
| US09914151B2 |
Method of applying adhesive to an outer circumferential surface of a cylindrical compressor liner and an adhesive applicator apparatus therefor
An apparatus is provided for applying adhesive to a compressor liner having a longitudinal central axis. A first roller has a longitudinal central axis and has an outer circumferential surface which is immersed in adhesive in an adhesive sink. A second roller has a longitudinal central axis and is radially spaced apart from the first roller. The second roller has same outer diameter as the first roller and has an outer circumferential surface which is not immersed in adhesive in the adhesive sink. The first and second rollers cooperate to support the compressor liner for rotation about its longitudinal central axis. A drive mechanism includes a constant speed drive for rotating the first and second rollers about their longitudinal central axes at a constant rotational speed to allow a consistent weight and uniform layer of adhesive to be transferred from the first roller to the compressor liner. |
| US09914145B2 |
Diffuser and related methods
A liquid diffuser includes a base, a liquid reservoir, a spout for resting on the reservoir and having an upper opening, a fan, a polymeric gasket encircling the liquid reservoir, and a cover. The gasket includes a flange extending over a portion of an upper surface of the base that extends laterally beyond the liquid reservoir. The cover is sized and configured to be positioned over and around the liquid reservoir and the spout, and to rest upon the flange of the gasket. Methods of assembling such a liquid diffuser include resting the spout upon the liquid reservoir, and resting the spout upon the flange of the gasket over the base. Method of using such a liquid diffuser include powering a transducer for generating atomized droplets of the liquid, and supplying power to the fan to carry the atomized droplets of the liquid out from the diffuser with forced airflow. |
| US09914135B2 |
Methods and apparatus for the selection and/or processing of particles, in particular for the selective and/or optimised lysis of cells
Methods and apparatus for the selection or processing of particles sensitive to the application of an external stimulus, in which is produced, by applying the external stimulus, the rupture/lysis of at least one selected particle or the fusion of first and second selected particles, by means of the organization of the particles using a first field of force by selectively energizing electrodes of an array of selectable electrodes having dimensions comparable to or smaller than those of the particles, applying to the electrodes a first configuration of stresses; and by applying to the electrodes a second configuration of stresses, so as to create a second field of force, located substantially close to at least one selected particle to be lysated or to a pair of first and second particles to be fused and such as to produce the application of a stimulus suited to produce their lysis or fusion. |
| US09914134B2 |
Systems and methods for cleaning air
An air cleaning system has a field charger comprising a plurality of bars comprising a conductive inner core and a non-conductive overmold, and a plurality of pins attached to the bars and extending out of the non-conductive overmold. The conductive inner core is molded over the plurality of pins, conductively connecting the pins, and the non-conductive overmold is molded over the conductive inner core. A method of manufacturing the field charger includes placing a plurality of metal pins in a mold, placing contact points in the mold, molding a conductive resin over at least a portion of the plurality of pins and contact points, molding an insulating resin over the inner core, plurality of pins, and contact points, wherein at least a portion of the pins and contact points extend from the non-conductive overmold, and mounting an earthplate to the conductive overmold. |
| US09914133B2 |
Air purifier
An electrostatic precipitator for an air purifier includes a first spiral strip having a continuous conductive electrode, a second spiral strip having a continuous conductive electrode and nested with the first strip, a plurality of combs. Each comb extends from an outer periphery of the precipitator to an intermediate region between the outer periphery and a center of the precipitator. |
| US09914132B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for processing heterogeneous materials
A system for processing a heterogeneous material includes a conduit for a pressurized fluid and a nozzle assembly in fluid communication with the conduit. The nozzle assembly includes a plurality of adjustable nozzles configured such that fluid streams passing through each nozzle intersect at an oblique angle after passing through the nozzles. At least one of the fluid streams comprises a heterogeneous material. A method of processing a heterogeneous material includes entraining heterogeneous particles into at least one fluid stream, passing the fluid stream through an adjustable nozzle, impacting the fluid stream with another fluid stream at an oblique angle to ablate the heterogeneous particles, and classifying the heterogeneous particles. |
| US09914129B2 |
Mounting of wear parts for vertical shaft impact crushers
This invention relates to a wear part for the rotor of a rock crusher, the rotor including at least one outlet port, and a mounting bar, wherein the wear part is configured to engage with the mounting bar, the wear part including: a body having an upper surface and a lower surface, the body also including a surface configured to abut against the outlet port, characterized in that the wear part is configured with a channel having substantially an U-shaped cross section running between the upper surface and the lower surface of the body, the channel having a mouth and a location portion, wherein the locating portion is complementary to the width of the mounting bar; wherein the exterior surface of the bottom portion of the U-shaped cross section includes a lateral projection and abuts the outlet port in use. |
| US09914127B2 |
Hydraulic system for controlling a jaw crusher
A hydraulic system for controlling the position of a movable jaw of a jaw crusher includes a hydraulic cylinder having a piston with a piston rod for positioning the movable jaw. The hydraulic cylinder has a bore side space for containing a hydraulic fluid taking up crushing forces exerted by the movable jaw on the piston rod, and an annular side space containing a hydraulic fluid pressing the piston against hydraulic fluid of the bore side space. The hydraulic system further includes an annular side space accumulator having a fluid compartment, which is in fluid contact with the annular side space, and a gas compartment containing a pressurized gas applying a pressure on the hydraulic fluid in the annular side space. |
| US09914126B2 |
Storage container for biosensor test elements
A component for a storage container configured to receive vertically oriented articles. The component includes a tubular sidewall extending longitudinally from a base, and at least one spacer portion extending from an underside of the base and configured for engagement with an interior surface of a corresponding storage container. The component also includes at least one pair of retainer elements extending laterally from an inner surface of the tubular sidewall and inwardly into an interior region of the component, and with the retainer elements being oppositely oriented and configured to retain a vertically oriented article therebetween by frictional engagement with opposite longitudinal edges of the article, and wherein an insertion force for resilient deflection of the retainer elements during insertion of the article is less than a removal force for resilient deflection of the retainer elements during removal of the article. |
| US09914120B2 |
Blood cell counting device and method
A device for use in imaging a liquid sample comprises an inlet for accepting the sample, a connection conduit and a detection chamber for detection of the sample, preferably optical detection of the sample. The connection conduit connects the inlet to the detection chamber and contains one or more dry reagents for reaction with the sample as the sample passes through the connection conduit. Specific embodiments include devices arranged for treating a blood sample, in particular lysing and staining the sample. The liquid flow may be driven by capillary effect. The device may further include liquid handling structures arranged for centrifugally driven liquid flow, for example to meter a volume of sample and separate the sample into phases by centrifugation. |
| US09914113B2 |
Hydrocracking process using a zeolite catalyst containing two distinct hydrogenating functions
Process for hydrocracking and/or hydrotreatment of hydrocarbon feeds utilizing a catalyst comprising at least one hydro-dehydrogenating element of group VIB and of non-precious group VIII used alone or mixed, and a support comprising at least one porous mineral matrix and at least one dealuminated USY zeolite having an overall silicon-to-aluminium atomic ratio comprised between 2.5 and 10, a fraction by weight of extra-network aluminium atom greater than 10% relative to the total mass of the aluminium present in the zeolite, a mesopore volume measured by nitrogen porosimetry greater than 0.07 ml.g−1, and a crystal parameter a0 of the elemental mesh greater than 24.28 Å, in which a quantity of the element nickel comprised between 0.5 and 3% by weight relative to the total mass of the zeolite is deposited on said USY zeolite and in which said catalyst is in the sulphide form. |
| US09914112B2 |
Process for producing water-absorbent polymer particles by polymerizing droplets of a monomer solution
The present invention relates to a process for producing water-absorbent polymer particles by polymerizing droplets of a monomer solution in a surrounding heated gas phase in a reactor comprising a gas distributor (3), a reaction zone (5) and a fluidized bed (27), the gas leaving the reactor is treated in a condenser column (12) with an aqueous solution, the treated gas leaving the condenser column (12) is recycled at least partly to the fluidized bed (27), wherein the gas leaving the condenser column (12) comprises from 0.05 to 0.3 kg steam per kg dry gas and the steam content of the gas entering the gas distributor (3) is less than 80% of the steam content of the gas leaving the condenser column (12). |
| US09914111B1 |
Solid-phase synthetic procedure for attapulgite-crosslinked chitosan composite adsorbent
The present invention relates to a mercury-containing wastewater treatment technology field, in particular to an attapulgite-crosslinked chitosan composite adsorbent and its solid-phase synthetic method. The attapulgite-crosslinked chitosan composite mercury adsorbent in the invention is synthesized by the method of adding chitosan and glutaraldehyde in batches. In consideration of the limited solubility of chitosan, batch addition can not only dissolve chitosan, but also minimize the use of organic acid, resulting in less discharge of wastewater and waste gas, which is suitable for large-scale industrial production. The prepared mercury adsorbent can be applied to the removal of mercury ions in the wastewater owing to the excellent adsorptive property and regeneration performance. Meanwhile, the solid-phase synthetic procedure for preparing the mercury adsorbent is simple, easy to handle and environmental-friendly. Moreover, the product cost is greatly reduced due to the use of attapulgite. |
| US09914106B2 |
Method of producing silicone microspheres
A method of making silicone microspheres comprises nebulizing a silicone precursor solution comprising one or more oligomeric dimethylsiloxanes, a catalyst and a solvent into an aerosol comprising a plurality of droplets. Each droplet comprises the silicone precursor solution. The droplets are entrained in a gas which is flowed through a reaction zone comprising light energy and/or heat energy. Upon exposure of the droplets to the light energy and/or the heat energy, the solvent evaporates and the one or more oligomeric dimethylsiloxanes are polymerized. Thus, silicone microspheres are formed from the droplets of the aerosol. |
| US09914105B2 |
Phase-change suspension fluid composition including polyethylene oxide particles and method for manufacturing the same
A suspension fluid prepared by dispersing polyethylene oxide particles into a solvent including water and one or more types of compounds selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, and a method for manufacturing the same. The phase-change suspension fluid can be a shear-thinning fluid showing a constant newtonian behavior in a low shear rate or low frequency region, but showing a non-newtonian behavior appearing as liquid-like suspension in a high shear rate or high frequency region due to viscosity decrease, and is capable of reversible phase changes by the vibration of a vehicle, and therefore, may provide effects of having advantages of a hydraulic bush in a low frequency region and also having advantages of a solid bush in a high frequency region. |
| US09914104B2 |
Methods and apparatus for three phase contacting and reactions in a cross flow reactor
Methods, apparatus and processes for three phase contacting and reactions in a cross flow reactor with reduced feed vaporization, low pressure operation, higher liquid holdup, lower reactor pressure drop, low severity operation, and reduced product inhibitory effects. A cross flow reactor for three phase catalytic hydroprocessing, having at least one reactor stage is disclosed. The reactor stage has a central gas distributor with perforated lateral surface for distributing gas, a middle region accommodating a packed catalyst bed, and an outer gas space for removal of effluent gases from the middle region. The middle region receives a liquid reactant and gas from central gas distributor to carry out three phase catalytic hydroprocessing reaction. |
| US09914102B2 |
Formulations
A receptacle includes a cardboard box in which is arranged a plastics container. A first securement element associated with the plastics container is positioned in a gap defined by the cardboard of the box thereby to restrict movement of the container within the box. |
| US09914101B1 |
Mud mixing bit
A mixing bit having an elongated shaft configured to fit into a chuck of a drill at a first end also has a second end is provided with a blade assembly having a plurality of specifically shaped and equally-spaced blades. The blades extend perpendicularly from the shaft and then converge onto the shaft at a distal end of the second end. The bit is provided with a rounded spinner feature enabling smooth sliding of the device across a floor portion of a container during mixing. |
| US09914099B2 |
Self-assembled block copolymer membrane
Embodiments of the invention include methods for the production of porous membranes. In certain aspects the methods are directed to producing polymeric porous membranes having a narrow pore size distribution. |
| US09914094B2 |
Marine exhaust gas cleaning system
A marine exhaust gas scrubbing device including an enclosure having a first end and a second end, an exhaust gas inlet, at least one quencher, at least one pre-treater, at least one venturi component including a venturi inlet and a venturi outlet, an impingement basket, at least one demister, an exhaust gas outlet, and a receiver, and a process for scrubbing a marine exhaust gas including cooling the exhaust gas, pre-treating the exhaust gas, washing the exhaust gas, mixing the exhaust gas and exhausting the scrubbed exhaust gas. |
| US09914093B2 |
Method for heat-treating a material flow and for cleaning resulting exhaust gases
Methods for the heat treatment of a material flow and the cleaning of resulting exhaust gases are disclosed. The material flow may be preheated in a preheating zone, burned in a sintering zone, and cooled in a cooling zone. Exhaust gases of the sintering zone may flow through a preheater and be used for preheating the material flow. The exhaust gases leaving the preheater may be cooled at least partially in a comminuting device in interconnected operation or at least partially in a cooling device in direct operation. Exhaust gases may then be at least partly dedusted in a dust filter. A temperature of the dedusted exhaust gas may then be raised before the exhaust gas is cleaned of pollutants in at least one catalyst. A temperature at which the exhaust gases flow through the catalyst in direct operation may be higher, at least in phases, than a temperature at which the exhaust gases flow through the catalyst in interconnected operation. |
| US09914091B2 |
Method for cool drying a gas
A method for cool drying gas, making use of a heat exchanger whose primary section forms the evaporator of a cooling circuit with a compressor, an expansion valve and a bypass pipe across the compressor with a hot gas bypass valve, whereby the method makes use of a formula that makes the link between the state of the expansion valve and hot gas bypass valve, whereby on the basis of this formula: either the state of the expansion valve is adjusted as a function of the state of the hot gas bypass valve; or adjusting the state of the hot gas bypass valve as a function of the state of the expansion valve or vice versa; or the states of both valves are controlled with respect to one another. |
| US09914086B2 |
General ventilation system with automatic cleaning cycle
A general ventilation and air filtration system includes an air filtration control unit that monitors and controls an air flow through an air filter and maintains the air flow at a target velocity set point. The target velocity set point is maintained by monitoring and regulating the power of a motor powering a blower that generates an air flow though the air filtration system and through the air filter. By regulating the air flow and maintaining it in the target set point, power consumption and air filter life are significantly improved. |
| US09914085B2 |
Filter element and filter system
The invention relates to a filter element (10), comprising a filter body (12) having a longitudinal axis (L) arranged between a clean side (50) and a crude side (52) of the filter element, as well as comprising at least one first end disk (16) arranged on an end face (15) of the filter body (12). The end disk (16) has a sealing arrangement (22) for forming a seal between the clean side (50) and the crude side (52). In addition, the sealing arrangement (22) has a sealing region (23) that forms a radial seal and a separate holding region (20) arranged concentrically with the sealing region (23) and acts as a radial floating bearing. The invention also relates to a filter system (100) for replaceable installation of such a filter element (10). |
| US09914082B2 |
Air cleaner
An air cleaner is provided that may include a cylindrical case including an inlet through which air is suctioned in a radial direction into the cylindrical case; a filter configured to be detachably provided in the case and having a cylindrical shape; and a filter frame configured to support the filter. The filter frame may include a lower frame provided at a lower portion of the filter; an upper frame provided at an upper portion of the filter; and a plurality of supporting frames that extends toward the upper frame from the lower frame. An entry portion for the suctioned air may be formed between the plurality of support frames, the entry portion being configured to receive the filter. |
| US09914081B2 |
Aircraft engine with an apparatus for separating oil and a device for increasing pressure
An aircraft engine having a device for separating oil from an air-oil volume flow, where a fluid volume flow with a lower oil load than the air-oil volume flow supplied to the device can be discharged from the device via a line area. The fluid volume flow can be supplied via the line area to a unit by means of which a pressure in the line area downstream of the unit can be increased. |
| US09914078B2 |
Flexible container for concentrated product
Provided are flexible containers for holding a concentrate, the containers comprising: a flexible body holding the concentrate, a spout, a filter element disposed in the spout, the filter element comprising a filter and an attachment element configured to attach to a water source. Also provided are methods of reconstituting concentrated products using the flexible containers. |
| US09914074B2 |
Exclusion zone filtration
A polar liquid mixture containing suspended or dissolved particles or solute is exposed to air or a hydrophilic surface. An exclusion zone having a reduced concentration of particles or solute is formed in the polar liquid adjacent to the interface with air or the hydrophilic surface. One or more fractions of purified polar liquid and/or concentrated particles or solute are collected. A sensor can provide feedback to the collector. |
| US09914071B2 |
Systems and methods for separating and purifying butadiene
The present disclosure generally relates to systems for isolating and/or purifying byproducts of anaerobic fermentation processes, and methods of using same. In one embodiment, gas compositions comprising conjugated diolefins (e.g., 1,3-biobutadiene and/or isoprene) and various amounts of impurities (e.g., water vapor from fermentation media, carbon dioxide from microbe respiration, and organic bio-byproducts such as propanol) are produced in a fermentation process. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more compressors and/or one or more distillers suitable for low-temperature separation of the conjugated olefin(s) from a substantial amount of the impurities in the gas composition. |
| US09914068B2 |
Toy structure kit with a connector and accessories
The toy structure kit includes an accessory defining an opening, a toy structure defining an opening, and a connector having a base member and a collar, the connector configured to couple the accessory to the toy structure, the base member including a first projection member and a second projection member, the first projection member configured to extend through the opening defined by the accessory and receive the collar, the second projection member configured to extend through the opening defined by the toy structure. |
| US09914065B2 |
Selectively conductive toy building elements
The present invention relates to a selectively conductive toy building element, comprising: a body adapted for releasable engagement to at least one other toy building element body or to a corresponding baseplate, the body including at least one conductive portion having at least one contact area adapted to generate pressure on a conductive portion or contact area of an adjacent toy building element body, in such a way that ensures electrical conduction between said toy building elements in a desired location and direction. |
| US09914062B1 |
Wirelessly communicative cuddly toy
A wirelessly communicative cuddly toy including a stuffed animal toy having a motorized, articulated robotic interior member disposed therein surrounded by flocculent stuffing material. The robotic interior member includes a transceiver wirelessly communicable by NFC protocol with any appropriate peripheral device. An articulated head member is disposed upon the robotic interior member and configured to animate a mouth of the stuffed animal toy when a speaker, disposed to play audio signals relayed by the transceiver, is activated. Audio executed on the peripheral device is thus playable through the speaker on the robotic interior member and the articulated head member animates the stuffed animal toy in simulation of verbal communication with a user. |
| US09914055B2 |
Interactive video game system comprising toys with rewritable memories
The invention disclosed herein relates to a video game system comprising a video game console and an object or toy used in connection with the video game console, wherein the object or toy has a rewritable data storage device, and wherein the video game console stores information in the rewritable data storage device in response to game play events occurring in a first gaming session. The stored information is subsequently retrieved by the video game console in a second gaming session, and the retrieved information is used to conduct the game play of the second gaming session. |
| US09914054B2 |
Display of system-level achievements with real-time updating
Examples of the disclosure provide real-time display of achievements to a user during gameplay. A computing device receives a request from a user to display a portion of achievement data describing performance of the user in a gaming application. Responsive to the received request, the achievement data is filtered based on contextual criteria. The filtered achievement data is provided to a user interface for display during gameplay. The displayed achievement data is updated by the computing device updates during gameplay. The achievement data may be system-level achievement data. Further, the achievement data may be displayed on another computing device. |
| US09914053B2 |
Systems and methods for fitness and video games
In some aspects, a system is provided that includes (1) a plurality of mobile devices; and (2) an application on each mobile device, the application adapted to (a) allow exercisers to form an exercise group; (b) track position or change in position of each exerciser in the exerciser group; and (c) display an avatar having a position that is controlled by a position or change in position of one or more member of the exercise group. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US09914050B2 |
Guitar shaped video game controller
A guitar-shaped video game controller includes a body having a shape that resembles a guitar body, and a neck that is pivotally coupled to the guitar body via a hinge so that the neck can pivot between an extended position and a folded position relative to the guitar body. A latch assembly is actuatable to selectively lock the neck in the extended position to the body. A cable extends between and electrically connects the neck and the body to maintain an electrical connection between the neck and the body when the neck is in the extended and the folded positions. |
| US09914048B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for recording and utilizing an audio signature within an application
A method for handling communication for a computer game is provided. Once example method includes executing the computer game for game play by a user. The computer game has an interface for recording audio signatures to use during game play based specific qualifying events. During game play, the method detects that a qualifying event has occurred by examining metadata associated with the game play. The method includes generating a message in response to detecting the qualifying event. The message is configured to include an audio signature that was associated with the qualifying event. Then, transmit the message including the audio signature to a predefined recipient that is playing the computer game via a second computing device. The audio signature is output by a speaker associated with the second computing device upon receiving the message. |
| US09914045B1 |
High roll dice casino table game
A casino table game and method of play using between eight and twelve dice, which game is played on a game surface including a dice throw box, a first roll wagering area for wagering on the highest ranking and greatest number of like kind indicia dice resulting from a first dice roll, a first and second roll wagering area for wagering on the actual number of like kind indicia dice that will result from the first dice roll or a first and second dice roll, a large payout wagering area for wagering that most or all of the dice will result with the same indicia face up, and a second roll wagering spot for the players to pay an ante in order to be eligible to wager on the results of a second dice roll, which game provides exciting play with the additional possibility of winning a jackpot or lottery-sized payout. |
| US09914039B2 |
Golf putting apparatus
A golf putting apparatus is presented. The apparatus includes a putter with a shaft and a club head, wherein the club head has a center section carved out to form an opening. The bottom of the opening may be defined by a connector. When used with the opening uncovered, this putter provides the golfer with immediate feedback on his/her swing, such as whether the ball would have contacted the sweet spot of the club had the opening been closed, how hard the ball was hit, and which part of the ball was hit. A club face may be attached across the opening to “close” the opening so the putter may be used in a game. |
| US09914037B2 |
Method and device for providing guiding for executing a golf swing
The present invention is related to a method and to a device for providing guiding to a user for executing a golf swing with a golf club on a golf ball towards a target, said method being implemented in an electronic device comprising a display in communication with a control unit, said display being placed in the line-of-sight of the user. |
| US09914035B2 |
Sports training machine
A basketball training apparatus includes a shot completion sensor, a condition sensor, and a computer. The shot completion sensor determines whether a shot goes through a basketball hoop. The condition sensor senses a physical condition of a basketball shooter. The computer is in communication with the shot completion sensor and the condition sensor, and has a processor for calculating shot completion percentage as a function of the physical condition. |
| US09914034B2 |
Batting tee
A batting tee that includes a return mechanism, a swing arm connected to the return mechanism to swing about a rotation axis, a strike target connected to the swing arm, and a base supporting the return mechanism and the swing arm, the return mechanism including a mechanical energy storage device that stores mechanical energy when the swing arm swings in one direction in response to a batter's striking of the strike target, and a damper that slows down the swinging of the swing arm in the opposite direction as the swing arm swings back by the force supplied by the mechanical energy storage device. |
| US09914032B2 |
Multi functional golf tool
The invention relates to a multi functional golf tool that can be used to address a variety of circumstances that commonly arise during a game of golf. The multi functional tool includes a rectangular body having a proximal end, a tapered distal end being opposite said proximal end, the rectangular body having an arcuate cross-section along its entire length. The invention includes a deburring surface for repairing golf ball scratches, a pair of tines for divot repair and to clean golf club face grooves, and areas for marketing indicia. The shape and configuration of the invention also permits it to be used as a shoe horn. |
| US09914031B2 |
Golf tee and beverage closure combination
A golf tee and beverage cap combination comprises a tubular concave twist off cap, having different methods of securement to containers, extending from its bottom a tapering member that ends in a pointed tip. The beverage cap and golf tee can either be one piece or connected to one another through a protruding member associated to the bottom of a beverage cap. The protruding member will comprise of a perforated section at its end that is loosely connected to the pointed tip of a golf cap. The pointed tip and protruding member easily detach from one another and retain their original objectives. If the beverage cap and golf tee are one piece, the top portion of the cap will be depressed to allow a user to rest a golf ball. The material used should allow the combined device to come in contact with any thing consumed by man. |
| US09914029B2 |
Golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads
Embodiments of golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads are generally described herein. In one example, a golf club head may include a hollow body portion having a front portion, a rear portion, a toe portion, a heel portion, a bottom portion, a top portion, a plurality of ports on the bottom portion and a plurality of inner support portions in the hollow body portion. Other examples and embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US09914025B2 |
Golf club heads or other ball striking devices having distributed impact response
A ball striking device, such as a golf club head, includes a face having a ball striking surface configured for striking a ball and a body connected to the face and extending rearwardly from the face. The body has an impact-influencing structure in the form of a channel positioned on at least one surface of the body. A majority of a force generated by impact with a ball is absorbed by the impact-influencing structure, and a majority of a response force generated by the head upon impact with the ball is generated by the impact-influencing structure. The face may have increased stiffness as compared to existing faces, and may include a stiffening structure to create the increased stiffness, such as a porous or cellular stiffening structure. |
| US09914024B2 |
Putter
When hitting a ball to a target with a putter, the ball often travels to a point which is deviated to the right from the target. When a golfer looks at the target just after taking his address, he turns his head to a target about a rotation axis which extends through the back of his head. When this rotation axis is not horizontal and an angle defined by the rotation axis and his sighting line to a putter head is not 90°, he has an optical illusion which tricks him into believing that he has to correct his address position. The patter of the present invention is provided with a thin-plate pendulum thereby allowing him to turn his head about the rotation axis while keeping the angle defined by the rotation axis and his sighting line at 90°. |
| US09914020B2 |
Golf ball having oval dimples
A golf ball includes oval dimples arranged on the surface thereof. Each of the oval dimples has a long diameter DL and a short diameter DS in a planar shape thereof and further having a depth DPL on a first cross section of the oval dimple along the long diameter DL and a depth DPS on a second cross section of the oval dimple along the short diameter DS, the depth DPL being a distance taken on the first cross section along the long diameter DL from a first line connecting both ends of the first cross section of the oval dimple to a deepest point of a dimple bottom surface, the depth DPS being a distance taken on the second cross section along the short diameter DS from a second line connecting both ends of the second cross section of the oval dimple to a deepest point of a dimple bottom surface, a relationship between the depth DPL and the depth DPS being defined as a following formula (1): DPS>DPL (1). Each of the oval dimples further having a cross-sectional area DLA on the first cross section of the oval dimple along the long diameter DL and a cross-sectional area DSA on the second cross section of the oval dimple along the short diameter DS, the cross-sectional area DLA being surrounded by the first line connecting both ends of the first cross section of the oval dimple and the bottom surface thereof, the cross-sectional area DSA being surrounded by the second line connecting both ends of the second cross section of the oval dimple and the bottom surface thereof, a relationship between the cross-sectional area DLA and the cross-sectional area DSA being defined as a following formula (2): DLA≧DSA (2). |
| US09914018B2 |
System, method and apparatus for capturing and training a swing movement of a club
A system, method and apparatus for training a swing movement of a club includes storing a desired swing data in a measuring device, capturing a training swing data in the measuring device, comparing the training swing data to the desired swing data to determine a set of differential data, outputting a signal to a user corresponding to the set of differential data. |
| US09914015B2 |
Leg-powered treadmill
A motor-less leg-powered curved treadmill produced that allows people to walk, jog, run, and sprint without making any adjustments to the treadmill other than shifting the user's center of gravity forward and backwards. A closed loop treadmill belt running between front and rear pulley rollers is formed with a low friction running surface of transverse wooden, plastic or rubber slats attached to each other in a resilient fashion, wherein each transverse slat has at least one continuous fin descending downward therefrom. |
| US09914011B2 |
Impact damping mat, equipment accessory and flooring system
An impact damping mat comprises a base layer having a base surface with a plurality of protuberances, a damping layer overlying the base layer, a load distribution layer overlying the damping layer and an upper layer overlying the load distribution layer and having a planar top surface. The materials and dimensions of the layers cooperate to provide a selected rebound characteristic and a selected sound reduction characteristic. |
| US09914006B1 |
I-lift
A dumbbell used as a weight training device during a weight training or exercise program. Ball bearing wheels are used to allow user to accomplish most chest workouts with pushup form flies, and acting as pushup stands, ILIFTS allow deeper pushups. The dumbbell includes a gripping handle and a pair housing to secure weight plates inside. The provided handle is capable in rotating and the main advantage of the invention, there is disassembly is not required to move from one to another workout without any difficulties. The whole device is made from stainless steel, ball bearing wheels, and rubber cushion grip. |
| US09914002B2 |
Workout bag assemblies
A workout bag assembly including a tubular body having a closed end and an accessible end. The tubular body defines an interior divided into at least two compartments by a partition. The tubular body also has an exterior with two inner handles side-by-side along a length of the tubular body and two end handles. Each end handle is adjacent to a respective end. A partition divides an interior of the tubular body into a first compartment and a second compartment. Three tubes can receive a weighted material. The first compartment is sized and configured to snugly hold one of the three tubes when filled, and the second compartment is sized and configured to snugly hold two of the three tubes when filled. |
| US09913999B2 |
Retracting lifeline systems for use in tie-back anchoring
A retracting lifeline system, includes: a housing, a first connector attached to the housing, a lifeline, and a hub to which the lifeline is attached at a first end of the lifeline and around which the lifeline is coiled within the housing. The housing includes an opening through which the lifeline exits the housing. The hub is tensioned to rotate in a first direction to cause retracting of the lifeline and coiling of the lifeline around the hub. The retracting lifeline system further includes a second connector attached to a second end of the lifeline. At least a section of the lifeline has an initial ultimate tensile load of at least 8000 pounds and is abrasion resistant (that is, satisfying the abrasion test requirement set forth in the ANSI/ASSE Z359.13-2009 standard) such that the section of the lifeline is available for tie-back anchoring using the second connector. The section of the lifeline is at least partially retractable within the housing. |
| US09913998B2 |
Air purifier having an electret module
An air purifier having an electret module for capturing airborne particles, the electret module including an electret element disposed within a housing and an adhesive layer coupled to the housing to capture airborne particles, whereby the static field of the electret attracts the airborne particles, which subsequently adhere to the adhesive layer. |
| US09913994B2 |
LED therapy bed
A light therapy bed including multiple LEDs positioned in individually controllable modules is disclosed. The modules of LEDs are configured to have direct contact or in close proximity to the skin or tissue of the user, through an acrylic or similar cover. The LEDs light the surface and underlying layers of tissue for photodynamic stimulation of the cells. Iterations of the device utilize light known to have a bactericidal effect in the case of acne, MRSA, etc. The bed is fabricated and formed in a curved configuration to optimize contact between the LEDs and the skin of a user. Each of the LED modules may be mounted on a PCB in an arrangement to provide even lighting and temperature upon the skin or tissue surface of a user. Each module also has one or more thermal sensors that evenly and quickly heat all of the areas of a user's body. |
| US09913993B2 |
Systems and methods for phototherapy
The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and uses of systems for treating a skin condition with phototherapy. A system comprises (a) a phototherapy device comprising a phototherapy light source; (b) a patient computing device comprising a processor and a memory, the patient computing device configured to: transmit a first signal to the phototherapy device enabling operation of the phototherapy device according to one or more conditional prescription parameters, activate the phototherapy light source, and transmit a second signal reporting operation of the phototherapy device; and (c) a server configured to communicate with the patient computing device and receive the second signal. |
| US09913992B2 |
Oral treatment device
An oral treatment device that emits light onto surfaces of a user's teeth. In one aspect, the oral treatment device includes an intraoral mouthpiece comprising: a lamp support surface; and a lamp. When the lamp is mounted to the lamp support surface, a first contact surface of the lamp contacts a first contact surface of a first electrical contact element of the lamp support surface; and (2) a second contact surface of the lamp contacts a second contact surface of a second electrical contact element of the lamp support surface. |
| US09913988B2 |
Systems, apparatus, methods and computer-readable storage media facilitating telemetry with an implantable device
Techniques for facilitating telemetry with an implantable device are provided. In one embodiment, an implantable device includes a detection component configured to detect first vibration activity generated by a mobile electronic device external to the implantable device. The first vibration activity includes one or more defined vibration behaviors. The implantable device further includes a memory that stores executable components, and a processor that executes the executable components stored in the memory. In some embodiments, an executable component includes an analysis component configured to determine whether the first vibration activity has a defined level of similarity with a first vibration pattern identifier. Another executable component can include a communication component configured to conduct a telemetry session between the implantable device and the mobile electronic device based on a determination that the first vibration activity has the defined level of similarity with the first vibration pattern identifier. |
| US09913985B2 |
Method and apparatus to provide safety checks for neural stimulation
In electrically stimulating neural tissue it is important to prevent over stimulation and unbalanced stimulation which would cause damage to the neural tissue, the electrode, or both. It is critical that neural tissue in not subjected to any direct current or alternating current above a safe threshold. Further, it is important to identify defective electrodes as continued use may result in neural and further electrode damage. The present invention presents system and stimulator control mechanisms to prevent damage to neural tissue. |
| US09913984B2 |
Stimulation configuration management systems and methods
An exemplary stimulation configuration management system may 1) obtain electric field imaging (EFI) data for a plurality of stimulation configurations associated with an electrode included in an intracochlear electrode array that is a part of a cochlear implant system associated with a patient, 2) identify, based on the EFI data, a stimulation configuration included in the plurality of stimulation configuration and that focuses an electric field produced by current applied to the electrode more than any other stimulation configuration included in the plurality of stimulation configurations, and 3) direct the cochlear implant system to use the identified stimulation configuration for the electrode during a normal operation of the cochlear implant system. |
| US09913981B1 |
Methods and devices for treating erectile dysfunction
Methods and devices for treating erectile dysfunction are disclosed. Methods are aimed at reducing blood outflow from penile tissue by delivering energy to specific penile tissue that controls blood outflow from the penile tissue and causing remodeling of the specific penile tissue. Devices may be configured to generate RF energy and to apply the generated RF energy to a penis to thereby elevate a temperature of internal penile tissue above a predetermined temperature value while maintaining a penile surface below a predetermined temperature threshold. The predetermined temperature value may be set to initiate synthesis and/or a regeneration of collagen fibers in a collagen-rich penile connective tissue and/or to increase oxygenation of endothelial cells, initiate angiogenesis and neovascularization in a vascular penile tissue. Additionally, electrical penile stimulation is disclosed, possibly applicable in conjuncture with the erectile dysfunction treatment. |
| US09913980B2 |
Miniature implantable neurostimulator system for sciatic nerves and their branches
This application describes a miniature implantable neurostimulator system for sciatic nerves and their branches. The implanted miniature neurostimulator is implanted in the leg and stimulates these nerves for the treatment of urinary or bowel incontinence. The miniature implantable neurostimulator has a low duty cycle permitting a small size with medically-acceptable longevity. The system includes a wireless programmer and patient-activated key fob. |
| US09913978B2 |
Miniminally invasive dermal electroporation device
The disclosure is directed to a device for electroporating and delivering one or more antigens and a method of electroporating and delivering one or more antigens to cells of epidermal tissues using the device. The device comprises a housing, a plurality of electrode arrays projecting from the housing, each electrode array including at least one electrode, a pulse generator electrically coupled to the electrodes, a programmable microcontroller electrically coupled to the pulse generator, and an electrical power source coupled to the pulse generator and the microcontroller. The electrode arrays define spatially separate sites. |
| US09913977B2 |
Process and system for iontophoretic wrinkle reduction
A method and related systems and apparatus for wrinkle reduction. The method includes the steps of positioning and applying a patch to skin of a consumer and adhesively securing the patch to the skin. A chemical composition on the patch includes both active ingredients and adhesive. A pair of electrodes are connected to a battery-driven, microprocessor-based controller. A current is applied through the electrodes in the patch for a selected time. The chemical composition in the patch is propelled into the consumer through use of the current in order to relax the skin or the consumer. The patch is removed and any residue of the chemical composition is massaged into the skin. |
| US09913975B2 |
Neurostimulation system and method for compounding current to minimize current sources
A neurostimulation system and method of providing therapy to a patient implanted with a plurality of electrodes using a plurality of electrical sources is provided. A source-electrode coupling configuration is determined from the electrical sources and electrodes. Electrical current is respectively conveyed between active ones of the plurality of electrical sources and active subsets of the plurality of electrodes in accordance with the determined source-electrode coupling configuration. The total number of the electrodes in the active electrode subsets is greater than the total number of the active electrical sources. |
| US09913973B2 |
Transcranial direct current brain stimulation apparatus
The present invention generally relates to the use of electrodes with human and animal subjects. More particularly, the present invention relates to electrical contacts which are applied to the surface of a subject for the purpose of delivering transranial direct current stimulation (TDCS). |
| US09913972B2 |
Cannula seal
A cannula seal is presented. The cannula seal includes a cap portion that fits over a cannula and a valve portion. The valve portion includes an hourglass seal and a cross slit seal. In some embodiments, the cap portion includes a tab. In some embodiments, the cap portion and the valve portion are integrally formed. In some embodiments, the cap portion and the valve portion are joined at a bonding region, which may include overflow traps. In some embodiments, ribs are included. |
| US09913967B2 |
Occluding catheter and dynamic method for prevention of stroke
A system for use in prevention of stroke is provided that has a shaft that carries an occluding balloon. The occluding balloon is inflated to occlude blood flow through at least one of a right carotid artery and a left carotid artery. An actuation device for causing inflation of the occluding balloon is present. The inflation is applied in a cyclical nature based upon a cardiac cycle. The cyclical inflation of the occluding balloon in turn causes a resulting cyclical occlusion. |
| US09913966B2 |
Balloon catheter
A balloon catheter comprises a balloon, an outer tube connected to a proximal end of the balloon, an inner tube disposed inside the outer tube and having a distal end attached to a distal end of the balloon, a protruded-depressed portion formed on an outer periphery of the inner tube, and a core wire disposed between the outer tube and the inner tube. The core wire has a bulged portion sandwiched between the outer tube and a depressed portion of the protruded-depressed portion. The balloon catheter can transmit a force from the core wire to both the outer tube and the inner tube regardless of whether the force is generated by pushing or pulling a proximal end portion of the balloon catheter. Additionally, the core wire can move appropriately to maintain the flexibility of the balloon catheter even when the balloon catheter bends. |
| US09913963B2 |
Steerable catheter with electrical signal delivered through steering wire
A steerable catheter includes a body portion, a flexible catheter body with a proximal end and a distal tip and a continuous steering wire passing through the flexible body from the proximal end to the distal tip and turning back through the flexible body from the distal tip to the proximal end. |
| US09913961B2 |
Flexible catheter shaft and method of manufacture
The present disclosure provides a strong, flexible catheter shaft for use in a catheter system. The flexible catheter shaft includes a braided polyimide tube including one or more outer layers of material of varying flexibility. The flexible catheter shaft provides a shaft having sufficient stiffness and kink resistance to allow an operator to advance an electrode basket connected to the flexible catheter shaft through a guide catheter to a target ablation site without causing vessel trauma. The distal tip of the flexible catheter shaft is designed to have sufficient flexibility to reduce any risk of kicking out a guide catheter when tracking the electrode basket around turns into side branches or bifurcations in the vasculature of a patient and includes a distal spring coil. |
| US09913957B2 |
Power switch for auxiliary common gas outlet
In various embodiments, flow rate of fluids, such as oxygen, nitrous oxide, and air, may be electronically and/or mechanically controlled. An electronically controlled auxiliary common gas output (ACGO) valve may direct the gas mixture, including one or more gases and/or anesthetics, either to a primary breathing machine or to an ACGO of an anesthesia delivery machine. The ACGO valve may include a piloted shuttle valve comprising a valve body and a piston configured to translate within the valve body. The piston may divert the gas mixture to a primary breathing system outlet when translated to a first position and to an ACGO when translated to a second position. An electronically controlled drive gas may toggle the position of the piston. In some embodiments, the piloted shuttle valve may be spring loaded and default to directing the gas mixture to the primary breathing system. |
| US09913955B2 |
Oscillating positive expiratory pressure device
An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet. |
| US09913950B2 |
Medicant delivery system
An improved medicant delivery system 100 is disclosed wherein the carrier for the medicant is a fluid that can be atomized or vaporized by exposure to heat. The system provides for repeatable dose of medicant, can be stored in any orientation, and/or has an ability to maximize energy efficiency. |
| US09913948B2 |
Injection needle assembly and drug injection device
An injection needle assembly includes an injection needle, a fitting portion, and a hub. The fitting portion is formed into a cylindrical shape and has one end serving as a fitting opening. The fitting portion includes a female taper shape in which an inner diameter of a cylindrical hole of the fitting portion becomes smaller toward an inner side. The hub includes the fitting portion for holding the injection needle. The injection needle assembly is used such that the female taper shape of the fitting portion is fitted to a drug discharge tube, which has a male taper shape in which an outer diameter of a cylinder becomes smaller toward a tip. When the male taper shape of the drug discharge tube has a taper ratio of N/100, the female taper shape of the fitting portion 12 is formed to have a taper ratio of M/100, where M>N. |
| US09913946B2 |
Medicament delivery device
A dose setting mechanism for a medicament delivery device is presented having a pinion mounted to a locking member where the axis of rotation of the pinion is offset and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing containing the dose setting components. Primary and secondary dose members are engaged with the pinion to indicate a set dose of medicament. A resetting mechanism is also presented where nut segments are threadedly engaged with an outer surface of a lead screw when in the locked position and are disengaged from the lead screw when the nut segments are in the unlocked position. |
| US09913943B2 |
Trigger assembly for an automatic injection device
A trigger assembly for an automatic injection device which by its operation releases a biased element of the device for movement. The trigger assembly includes a button pressable by a user, and a lock member. Prior to the button being plunged, a blocking element on the button is abutted by a button-engaging surface of the lock member to prevent lock member rotation, thereby allowing an engagement surface on the lock member to remain in engagement with an engagement surface of the biased element so as to restrain motion of the biased element. When the button is plunged, the blocking surface moves clear of the button-engaging surface to allow the lock member to rotate, during which rotation the engagement surfaces disengage to release the biased element for movement. |
| US09913942B2 |
Auto-injector
Described is an injection device for administering a dose of a medicament (M) comprising a carrier adapted to contain a syringe having a hollow injection needle and a stopper, a drive spring, a plunger adapted to forward load of the drive spring to the stopper, and a noise component adapted to generate an audible and/or tactile feedback by impacting a component of the injection device when the stopper is located at a proximal end of the syringe. In a first state, a resilient arm on the plunger is maintained in engagement with the noise component by the carrier. In a second state, the arm disengages the noise component and deflects at least partially into an aperture in the carrier. |
| US09913939B2 |
Valve arrangement for use in an extracorporeal blood circuit and method
The present invention relates to a valve arrangement for use in an extracorporeal blood circuit having at least one arterial blood line and at least one venous blood line, the valve arrangement having at least one first valve arranged in the arterial blood line, a second valve arranged in the venous blood line, a fourth valve arranged in a first arteriovenous connection line between the arterial blood line of the circuit and the venous blood line of the circuit, and a fifth valve arranged in a second arteriovenous connection line between the arterial blood line and the venous blood line; and/or a third valve arranged for establishing a fluid connection in a blood line between the arterial blood line and the venous blood line of the circuit; and/or a sixth valve arranged between a blood treatment device and an air venting device of the circuit. |
| US09913934B2 |
Radiopaque, optically translucent thermoplastic compounds
A radiopaque, optically translucent thermoplastic polyurethane compound is disclosed. The use of nano-sized particles of barium sulfate optionally in combination with a minor amount of certain dispersion aids allows the barium sulfate to be sufficiently dispersed within the thermoplastic polyurethane to retain optical translucency according to a defined Haze Determination Test. Medical devices, needing both visual spectrum observation before and during in-vivo medical use and radiopacity monitoring during in-vivo medical use, benefit from this compound. Optionally, a surface enhancer can also be used. |
| US09913933B2 |
Multilayered catheter shaft containing polyvinylidene fluoride polymers
In various embodiments of the present disclosure, a surgical catheter is provided. The present disclosure provides a catheter shaft that includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The proximal portion comprises a handle operably connected to the distal portion of the elongated structure. The distal portion three radially positioned polymeric layers. At least two of the layers include chemically dissimilar polymers and at least one of the three layers includes functionalized polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). |
| US09913927B2 |
In situ solidifying complex coacervates and methods of making and using thereof
Described herein are fluid complex coacervates that produce solid adhesives in situ. Oppositely charged polyelectrolytes were designed to form fluid adhesive complex coacervates at ionic strengths higher than the ionic strength of the application site, but an insoluble adhesive solid or gel at the application site. When the fluid, high ionic strength adhesive complex coacervates are introduced into the lower ionic strength application site, the fluid complex coacervate is converted to a an adhesive solid or gel as the salt concentration in the complex coacervate equilibrates to the application site salt concentration. In one embodiment, the fluid complex coacervates are designed to solidify in situ at physiological ionic strength and have numerous medical applications. In other aspects, the fluid complex coacervates can be used in aqueous environment for non-medical applications. |
| US09913926B2 |
Adhesive complex coacervates and method of making and using thereof
Described herein is the synthesis of adhesive complex coacervates and their use thereof. The adhesive complex coacervates are composed of a mixture of one or more polycations and one or more polyanions. The polycations and polyanions in the adhesive complex coacervate are crosslinked with one another by covalent bonds upon curing. The adhesive complex coacervates have several desirable features when compared to conventional bioadhesives, which are effective in water-based applications. The adhesive complex coacervates described herein exhibit good interfacial tension in water when applied to a substrate (i.e., they spread over the interface rather than being beaded up). Additionally, the ability of the complex coacervate to crosslink intermolecularly increases the cohesive strength of the adhesive complex coacervate. They have numerous biological applications as bioadhesives and drug delivery devices and are particularly useful in underwater applications and situations where water is present such as, for example, physiological conditions. |
| US09913918B2 |
Production of magnetic nanoparticles in recombinant host cells
Recombinant host cells are provided. The cell genome contains heterologous gene expression cassettes capable of being expressed in the host cell, where the gene expression cassettes encode a nucleic acid sequence encompassing at least 80% of the full-length sequence of the mamAB operon, the mamGDFC operon, and the tmms6 operon of a magnetotactic alphaproteobacterium, respectively. The cells may further comprise gene expression cassettes capable of being expressed in the host cell, where the gene expression cassettes encode a nucleic acid sequence encompassing at least 80% of the full-length sequence of the mamXY operon and/or the feoABI operon of a magnetotactic alphaproteobacterium; where the recombinant host cell, upon expression of the gene expression cassettes in their entirety, is capable of producing magnetic nanoparticles. Preferably, the recombinant host cell is derived from Rhodospirillum rubrum. Methods of producing these recombinant host cells by genetic transposition are provided. |
| US09913912B2 |
Carrier-linked prostanoid prodrugs
The present invention relates to carrier-linked prostanoid prodrugs of formula (I) Z1—(X0-L0-PG0)y (I), wherein Z1, X0, L0, PG0 and y have the meaning as indicated in the description and claims; pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same. It further relates to their use as medicaments, especially for treating, controlling, delaying or preventing pulmonary arterial hypertension. |
| US09913908B2 |
Transdermal pharmaceutical bases for treating ear disorders
The present disclosure refers to transdermal pharmaceutical bases that include a synergistic combination of a silicone base with a natural permeation enhancement composition (NPE). Further, these transdermal pharmaceutical bases are proposed to treat ear diseases in mammals. The silicone base includes silicone, pracaxi oil, and seje oil. Additionally, the NPE composition includes one or more phospholipids, one or more oils rich in essential fatty acids, behenic acid, and oleic acid, one or more skin lipids, and one or more butters rich in linoleic acid and linolenic acid. The synergistic combination of aforementioned natural components exhibit enhanced healing properties, thereby providing organic acids with antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. The transdermal pharmaceutical bases are employed to increase the residence time of the medicament in the ear canal, and increase the penetration of the APIs into the affected area, thereby enhancing treatment effectiveness. |
| US09913905B2 |
Liquid pharmaceutical formulations for injection comprising thiamine pyrophosphate 1-(3-aminopropyl)-2-methyl-1H-imidazole and uses thereof
Concentrated, low-viscosity, low-volume liquid pharmaceutical formulations of proteins have been developed. Such formulations can be rapidly and conveniently administered by subcutaneous (SC) or intramuscular (IM) injection, rather than by lengthy intravenous infusion. These formulations include low-molecular-weight and/or high-molecular-weight proteins, such as mAbs, and organophosphates. The viscosity of the formulation is significantly reduced by the addition of one or more organophosphates. |
| US09913904B2 |
Use of an agent consisting of antibodies and/or insulin-like growth factor antagonists
The present invention relates to the use of a composition selected from the group consisting of antibodies, antibody fragments, insulin-like growth factor antagonists, Toll-like receptor antagonists and mixtures thereof for the treatment or the prophylaxis of certain diseases. |
| US09913900B2 |
Method of treating alvelor bone loss through the use of anti-sclerostin antibodies
The invention provides a method of treating alveolar bone loss involving administration of a sclerostin inhibitor to a subject in need thereof. |
| US09913899B2 |
Diagnostic marker for treatment of cerebral ischemia
Identification of candidates for treatment and treatment of subjects experiencing cerebral ischemia wherein the treatment employs a thrombolytic or thrombectomy agent and an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-mediated signal transduction are determined by testing the blood of a patient for total S-100B or for S-100BB as a marker of blood brain barrier integrity. |
| US09913895B2 |
Cross-reactive T cell epitopes of HIV, SIV, and FIV for vaccines in humans and cats
The subject invention concerns methods and materials for inducing an immune response in an animal or person against an immunodeficiency virus, such as HIV, SIV, or FIV. In one embodiment, a method of the invention comprises administering one or more antigens and/or immunogens to the person or animal wherein the antigen and/or immunogen comprises one or more evolutionarily conserved epitopes of immunodeficiency viruses. In one embodiment, the epitope is one that is conserved between HIV and SIV, or between HIV and FIV. In another embodiment, the epitope is one that is conserved between HIV, SIV, and FIV. |
| US09913893B2 |
Vaccine vectors and methods of enhancing immune responses
Provided herein are vaccine vectors including an antigenic polypeptide and an HMGB1 polypeptide present on the surface of the vaccine vector. Compositions comprising the vaccine vectors are also provided and include a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, suitably a carrier for oral or nasal administration. Also provided are methods of enhancing immune responses, in particular antibody immune response and suitably an IgA response, by administering the vaccine vectors or compositions disclosed herein to a subject. |
| US09913888B2 |
Fish vaccine
The present document discloses a new species of Bizionia, herein denoted Bizionia piscinecroseptica and a reference strain of this bacterium denoted Bizionia sp. 130524K2F7 which has been deposited at the National Collection of Industrial and Marine Bacteria and has been assigned accession number NCIMB 42183. Further disclosed is the medical use of bacteria of the genus Bizionia for vaccinating fish against a new disease identified and herein denoted bizioniosis. |
| US09913887B2 |
Ureaplasma vaccine and antibodies
The present invention encompasses methods and compositions for Ureaplasma infection prevention and/or treatment. In specific cases, the invention concerns vaccines for Ureaplasma, including DNA vaccines. In certain embodiments, the invention regards vaccines directed towards the multiple-banded antigen(s) of Ureaplasma. |
| US09913885B2 |
Consensus prostate antigens, nucleic acid molecule encoding the same and vaccine and uses comprising the same
Provided herein are consensus amino acid sequences of prostate antigens that are capable of breaking tolerance in a targeted species, including PSA, PSMA, STEAP and PSCA antigens. Also provided are nucleic acid sequences that encode one or more consensus amino acid sequences of prostate antigens PSA, PSMA, STEAP and PSCA, as well as genetic constructs/vectors and vaccines expressing the sequences. Also provided herein are methods for generating an autoimmune response against prostate cancer cells by administering one or more of the vaccines, proteins, and/or nucleic acid sequences that are provided. |
| US09913884B2 |
HLA-A2 tumor associated antigen peptides and compositions
A peptide or composition comprising at least one HLA-A2 epitope or analog from CEA, HER2/neu, MAGE2, MAGE3, or p53. |
| US09913883B2 |
Immune-modifying nanoparticles for the treatment of inflammatory diseases
The current invention involves the administration of negatively charged particles, such as polystyrene, PLGA, or diamond particles, to subjects to ameliorate inflammatory immune responses. Additionally, the present invention describes methods of treating inflammatory diseases by administering these same negatively charged particles. |
| US09913878B2 |
Engineered integrin binding peptide compositions
Engineered peptides that bind with high affinity (low equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd)) to the cell surface receptors of fibronectin (α5β1) or vitronectin (αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrins) are disclosed as useful as imaging tissue. These peptides are based on a molecular scaffold into which a subsequence containing the RGD integrin-binding motif has been inserted. The subsequence (RGD mimic) comprises about 9-13 amino acids, and the RGD contained within the subsequence can be flanked by a variety of amino acids, the sequence of which was determined by sequential rounds of selection (in vitro evolution). The molecular scaffold is preferably based on a knottin, e.g., EETI (Trypsin inhibitor 2 (Trypsin inhibitor II) (EETI-II) [Ecballium elaterium (Jumping cucumber)], AgRP (Agouti-related protein), and Agatoxin IVB, which peptides have a rigidly defined three-dimensional conformation. It is demonstrated that EETI tolerates mutations in other loops and that the present peptides may be used as imaging agents. |
| US09913875B2 |
Botulinum neurotoxin-specific capture agents, compositions, and methods of using and making
The present application provides stable peptide-based Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) serotype A capture agents and methods of use as detection and diagnosis agents and in the treatment of diseases and disorders. The application further provides methods of manufacturing BoNT serotype A capture agents using iterative on-bead in situ click chemistry. |
| US09913873B2 |
Turmeric extract containing soft pastilles
The present disclosure provides a soft pastille containing turmeric extract as an active ingredient. The pastille is prepared using at least one gelling agent and at least one plasticizer in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the ratio of the gelling agent to the plasticizer is in a range of 1:2.5 to 1:3.3. |
| US09913869B2 |
Formulations comprising herbal extracts
The present invention relates to a formulation comprising extracts of Hedera helix, Pelargonium sidoides and Echinacea purpurea for use in the treatment, prevention of, or the alleviation and/or elimination of the symptoms of various respiratory tract diseases, as well as to a method for preparing this formulation. |
| US09913863B2 |
Regulatory B cells and their uses
The present invention relates to a phenotypically distinct CD1dhighCD5+ B cell subset that regulates T cell mediated inflammatory responses through the secretion of interleukin-10 (IL-10). The invention also relates to the use of these IL-10 producing regulatory B cells in the manipulation of immune and inflammatory responses, and in the treatment of disease. Therapeutic approaches involving adoptive transfer of these regulatory B cells, or expansion of their endogenous levels for controlling autoimmune or inflammatory diseases and conditions are described. Ablation of this subset of regulatory B cells, or inhibition of their IL-10 production can be used to upregulate immunodeficient conditions, and/or to treat tumors/cancer. Diagnostic applications also are encompassed. |
| US09913856B2 |
Drug formulations
The invention provides derivatives of decitabine with superior chemical stability and shelf life, with similar physiological activity. The derivatives are provided in a non-aqueous formulation, which further stabilizes the derivatives. Methods of treating one or more myelodysplastic syndromes, leukemia, or solid tumours using the formulations are described. |
| US09913844B2 |
Combination therapy
Reversing resistance to a B-Raf inhibitor for the treatment of a proliferative disease by obtaining a tumor sample from the patient and testing it for genetic alterations in a panel of genes comprising BRAF, CRAF, CCND1, CDK4, HER2, IGF-1R, cMET, FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3 EGFR, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, NRAS, KRAS HRAS, PTEN, PIK3CA, and P16 and administering a drug combination therapy comprising the B-Raf inhibitor and a second inhibitor which overcomes resistance to the B-Raf inhibitor, which second inhibitor is selected based on genetic alterations discovered in the tumor sample. |
| US09913843B2 |
Protein kinase C inhibitors and uses thereof
This disclosure concerns compounds which are useful as inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) and are thus useful for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are mediated or sustained through the activity of PKC. This disclosure also relates to pharmaceutical compositions that include these compounds, methods of using these compounds in the treatment of various diseases and disorders, processes for preparing these compounds and intermediates useful in these processes. |
| US09913838B2 |
Methods of treating cancer using compositions comprising perillyl alcohol derivative
A method for treating brain metastases of a cancer in a mammal includes administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a perillyl alcohol carbamate, such as TMZ-POH. The brain metastases can be originated or spread from breast cancer. The perillyl alcohol derivative may be perillyl alcohol conjugated with a therapeutic agent, such as a chemotherapeutic agent. The chemotherapeutic agents that may be used in the present invention include a DNA alkylating agent, a topoisomerase inhibitor, an endoplasmic reticulum stress inducing agent, a platinum compound, an antimetabolite, an enzyme inhibitor, and a receptor antagonist. |
| US09913836B2 |
Anticholinergic neuroprotective composition and methods
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising propiverine, trospium or glycopyrrolate; and a non-anticholinergic antiemetic agent. It is also related to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a high dose of solifenacin or a pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; and a non-anticholinergic antiemetic agent. Pharmaceutical compositions containing high dose of nsPAChA for use for increasing the AChEI blood concentrations and for combating neurodegeneration are also described. The invention also relates to a method for inducing neuroprotection and combating neurodegeneration in a patient suffering from Alzheimer type dementia as well as to a method for increasing the blood levels of an acetyl choline esterase inhibitor (AChEI) in a human subject treated with an AChEI dose. |
| US09913834B2 |
Bis-benzylidine piperidone proteasome inhibitor with anticancer activity
We describe a bis-benzylidine piperidone, RA190, which covalently binds to the ubiquitin receptor RPN13 (ADRM1) in the 19S regulatory particle and inhibits proteasome function, triggering rapid accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins. Multiple myeloma lines, even those resistant to bortezomib, were sensitive to RA190 via ER stress-related apoptosis. RA190 stabilized targets of human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 oncoprotein, and preferentially killed HPV-transformed cells. After p.o. or i.p. dosing of mice, RA190 distributed to plasma and major organs excepting brain, and potently inhibited proteasome function in skin and muscle. RA190 administration i.p. profoundly reduced growth of multiple myeloma and ovarian cancer xenografts, and oral RA190 treatment retarded HPV+ syngeneic mouse tumor growth, without impacting spontaneous HPV-specific CD8+ T cell responses, suggesting its therapeutic potential. The bis-benzylidine piperidone RA190 is a new orally-available proteasome inhibitor. Multiple myeloma, cervical and ovarian cancers are particularly sensitive to RA190. |
| US09913833B2 |
Methods of treating developmental disorders using pipradrol
Methods of treating developmental disorders by administering a pharmaceutical composition of pipradrol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are provided. The methods may be used to treat conditions such as epilepsy, Landau-Kleffner Syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome. |
| US09913831B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Disclosed is a treatment of diabetes insipidus. Methods of treating diabetes insipidus disorders associated with P2Y receptors using the compounds and compositions are also disclosed. |
| US09913827B2 |
Bendamustine derivatives and methods of using same
The present invention is directed to bendamustine esters and bendamustine amides and their use for the treatment of cancer. |
| US09913822B2 |
Combination therapy with an anti-hyaluronan agent and therapeutic agent
Provided herein is combination therapy containing an anti-hyaluronan agent, such as a polymer-conjugated hyaluronan-degrading enzyme, and a tumor-targeted taxane, and optionally a further chemotherapeutic agent such as a nucleoside analog. The combination therapy can be used in methods of treating cancers, and in particular solid tumor cancers. |
| US09913821B2 |
Ferric organic compounds, uses thereof and methods of making same
The present invention discloses a novel form of ferric organic compounds, including a form of ferric citrate, which are soluble over a wider range of pH, and which have a large active surface area. The ferric organic compounds of the present invention can be delivered effectively by oral route with better delivery to treat patients suffering from hyperphosphatemia, metabolic acidosis and other disorders responsive to ferric organic compound therapy. |
| US09913812B2 |
Methods for the treatment of skin neoplasms
Methods of treating skin neoplasms using a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, e.g., a propynylaminoindan (such as rasagiline) are provided. Pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising monoamine oxidase inhibitors are also provided. |
| US09913811B2 |
Hydroxynaphthoquinone compounds for treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
A compound suitable for treating EGFR-dependent non-small cell lung cancer exceptionally inhibits activity of the EGFR kinase, in particular in EGFR-dependent non-small cell lung cancer with intrinsic or acquired resistance against at least one EGFR inhibitor. Methods for inhibiting EGFR kinase activity in non-small cell lung cancer cells which harbor an abnormality in the EGFR gene and for targeting cancer cells harboring an abnormality in EGFR gene by contacting EGFR-dependent non-small cell lung cancer cells with said compound are also provided. The compounds allow for an advantageous inhibition of the EGFR kinase activity and induction of apoptosis of the non-small cell lung cancer cells with abnormality in the EGFR gene. Hence, said compounds represent a highly promising treatment option for patients harboring EGFR-dependent cancer. |
| US09913810B2 |
Composition and method to alleviate joint pain using phospholipids and astaxanthin
A dietary supplement composition and associated method of use has the composition formulated in a therapeutic amount to treat and alleviate symptoms of joint pain in a person having joint pain. The composition includes astaxanthin and microbial fermented, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronan). The composition also includes at least one of a phospholipid, glycolipid, and sphingolipid. It is formulated into an oral dosage form and the astaxanthin is 0.1 to 15 percent by weight of the at least one phospholipid, glycolipid, and sphingolipid. |
| US09913809B1 |
Anti-cancer activity of (E)-1-(3′,4′-dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene
The present invention provides a method of using (E)-1-(3′, 4′-dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene to induce anti-tumorigenic effects in pancreatic carcinoma, ovarian carcinoma, prostate carcinoma, colon carcinoma, lung carcinoma, lymphoblastoma, melanoma and colorectal carcinoma. The invention also provides a method of using (E)-1-(3′, 4′-dimethoxyphenyl) butadiene to prevent cancer metastasis. |
| US09913807B2 |
Topical pharmaceutical bases for treating skin conditions
The present disclosure refers to topical pharmaceutical bases that possess scar healing properties. Further, these topical pharmaceutical bases are proposed for treating skin conditions, such as, for example keloids, hypertrophic scars, wounds, and burns, among others. The topical pharmaceutical bases include Amazonian oils and resins, such as pracaxi oil and breu-branco resin. The synergistic effect of pracaxi oil combined with breu-branco resin results in a highly effective scar and wound treatment. Suitable active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) can be incorporated to the topical pharmaceutical bases to formulate topical pharmaceutical compositions, which improve healing effects. The synergistic effect provided by the combination of pracaxi oil and breu-branco resin enables lower dosage requirements of the associated APIs when topical pharmaceutical compositions are employed for treating skin conditions. |
| US09913800B2 |
Compositions and methods for improving skin health
The disclosure relates to topical compositions and methods comprising whole, non-viable Micrococcaceae cells, wherein the cells have been processed to kill the cells while minimizing lysis. The topical compositions and methods are useful for decreasing skin inflammation and improving skin barrier function. |
| US09913798B2 |
Topical skin care formulations comprising plant extracts
Disclosed is a topical skin composition and corresponding methods for its use that includes an extract from Phaseolus vulgaris, Citris sinensis, Wedelia trilobata, Burretiodendron hsienmu, Bauhinia brachycarpa var. cavaleriei, Cystacanthus paniculatus, Caesalpinia minax, Pueraria wallichii, Tetracentron sinense, Bridelia insulana, Hedyotis verticillata, Syzygium fruticosum, Cercidiphyllum japonicum, Bauhinia glauca, Rhododendron siderophyllum, Cudrania pubescens, Cajanus cajan, Wendlandia uvariifolia, Siegesbeckia glabrescens, Azolla imbricate, Juncus bufonius, Poikilospermum suaveolens, Clerodendrum trichotomum var. fargesii, Porandra ramosa, Annona glabra, Sterculia pexa, Phoebe puwenensis, Myriopteron extensum, Croton lachnocarpa, Dillenia turbinata, Alpinia blepharocalyx, Crotalaria spectabilis, Ficus lacor, Ravenala madagascariensis, Cocculus orbiculatus, Drynaria fortunei, Acrachne racemosa, Pseuderanthemum polyanthum, Eriobotrys serrata, Vernonia arborea, Adianthum caudatum, Phaseolus lunatus, Ipomoea cairica, Alopecurus aequalis, Arenga pinnata, Rhynchosia yunnanensis, Syzygium cumini, Clausena dunniana, Cyclosurus parasiticus, or Solanum carolinense. |
| US09913795B2 |
Cosmetic compositions containing silicones
A cosmetic composition comprising a cosmetically active ingredient in a cosmetically acceptable medium, wherein the cosmetic composition contains a silicone composition comprising (A) a hydrophobic organopolysiloxane fluid having a surface tension of from 15 to 40 mN/m and (B) a finely divided solid hydrophobic filler dispersed in the organopolysiloxane fluid (A). |
| US09913793B2 |
Treatment of skin, including aging skin, to improve appearance
The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for topical or transdermal delivery, treatment of skin, and improving the appearance of skin, e.g., medically or cosmetically. In some cases, the composition may include nitric oxide and/or peptides such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and/or GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone). The nitric oxide and/or peptide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other structures containing nitric oxide, peptides, or both. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like. |
| US09913789B2 |
Formulations containing sphinganine
The present invention relates to formulations comprising A) sphinganine and B) at least one active ingredient selected from the group creatine, creatinine, caffeine, carnitine, biotin, arjunolic acid, xymenynic acid, minoxidil, arginine and derivatives thereof. |
| US09913784B2 |
Oral care compositions comprising zinc amino acid halides
Disclosed herein are oral care compositions comprising a zinc amino acid halide complex, and linear polyvinylpyrrolidone and/or sodium tripolyphosphate, which compositions have improved rheological stability. Methods of making and using the compositions are also provided. |
| US09913783B2 |
Dentifrice compositions having optimized preservatives
A dentifrice composition comprising 45% to 75% water, by weight of the composition; 25% to 50% of a calcium-containing abrasive by weight of the composition; greater than 0.10% to 0.30% benzyl alcohol, by weight of the composition; 0.01% to 0.11% of a paraben by weight of the composition; and an alkaline pH. |
| US09913773B2 |
Mobility assistance device
A mobility assistance apparatus includes first and second frames positioned on left and right sides of a user; a hinge arm mechanism coupled to the first and second frames; and a harness or a walking seat coupled to the frames to transfer at least a portion of the user's body weight from the legs and to transfer weight through the user's hip or pelvis to the first and second frame enabling the user to stand and walk or work for an extended period without requiring the user's arms to hold the frame. |
| US09913765B2 |
Diaper changing assembly
A diaper changing assembly includes a bag removably coupled to a diaper. The bag is available when the diaper is changed. A first packet is positioned within the bag. The first packet contains a salve. The salve may be applied to a user when the diaper is changed. A second packet is positioned within the bag. The second packet contains a powder. The powder may be applied to the user when the diaper is changed. A plurality of wipes is positioned within the bag. The wipes may be used to clean the user when the diaper is changed. |
| US09913764B2 |
Post-bonded grooved elastic materials
An elastic nonwoven laminate that contains an elastic film laminated to one or more nonwoven facings is provided. The nonwoven facing contains a conventional polyolefin and can also contain a polyolefin-based plastomer. The laminate is activated by grooving to decouple the nonwoven facing from the elastic film. To reduce fiber-pull out that can result due to activation by grooving, the laminate can be post-bonded at room or elevated temperatures and a specific range of pressures to compact the fibers of the facing and minimize fiber pull-out/fuzziness while not sacrificing the softness, elasticity, and feel of the laminate. |
| US09913763B2 |
Absorbent article with channels
A personal care absorbent article is disclosed which employs a combination of void spaces, also referred to as channels, in the crotch region of the article in conjunction with shaping elastic members located outside the lateral side edges of the absorbent core, that, when coupled with strategic alignment of certain components and specifically-located folding lines, will create an article with improved convex or outward curvature of the chassis upon unfolding which provides increased spatial separation of the topsheet or body side liner of the article from the genital area of the wearer. In addition, due to the manipulation of the specific location of such elements in the article, gender specific product designs can be created which are specifically tailored to more appropriately deal with the differences in location of the male and female genitalia. |
| US09913762B2 |
Surgical towels with reduced lint particle generation
Absorbent surgical towels with reduced lint particle generation are provided. The surgical towels are formed from fibrous substrates containing binder material that limits lint particle generation to 5,000 or less according to INDA standard test 160.1. The binder material can limit lint particle generation to 500 or less. |
| US09913759B2 |
Wound dressing
A method of preparing an adhesive wound dressing, the dressing comprising a central portion and an edge portion, the method comprising the steps of providing a support layer, drawing the support layer into a mold and dispensing a portion of uncured adhesive over the mold, distributing the adhesive in the mold and removing excess adhesive. The adhesive is cured and the support layer is detached from the mold. The central portion is provided with a plurality of through-going holes and an absorbent pad is placed on the non-adhesive side of the central portion and finally a backing layer is laminated to the absorbent pad and the edge portion of the support layer. |
| US09913756B2 |
Elastic bandage having improved compression properties
A compression bandage that is formed by the assembling of a self-adhesive nonwoven based on short conjugate fibers which have been crimped and of an elastic material, the effectiveness of which increases over time. The bandage can be used, alone or in a bilayer compression system, for the prevention or treatment of venous pathologies or lymphedema. |
| US09913753B2 |
Lacrimal duct tube
The present invention provides a lacrimal duct tube that can be preferably used for the treatment of lacrimal duct obstruction, in particular, sheath guided endoscopic probing having been frequently performed in recent years, the lacrimal duct tube being excellent in passage through a lesion in the lacrimal duct, operability in the lacrimal duct, and manipulation of the endoscope inserted into the lumen of the tube, and providing a sufficient viewing field of the endoscope. The present invention relates to a lacrimal duct tube, including: a pair of tubular members that each has an opening at one end and a hole in a side wall communicating with a lumen; and a connection member that connects other ends of the tubular members, wherein the tubular members each include a plurality of resin portions different in Shore hardness, at least one of the resin portions is positioned between the opening and the hole and forms a lumen wall of the tubular member, and the lumen wall has a Shore hardness of 57D or more. |
| US09913752B2 |
Surgical device and surgical method
A surgical instrument system for ophthalmic surgery in an eye is provided, comprising: an OCT apparatus including an interferometer; an optical fiber coupled to the OCT apparatus and extending a probe arm of the interferometer; a hand tool comprising: a hand piece, a tube extending away from the hand piece and comprising a distal end portion having a longitudinal axis, wherein a distal portion of the optical fiber is received within the tube; a beam emitter coupled to a tip end of the optical fiber and configured to emit an OCT measuring beam into an emission direction; and an actuator configured to change the emission direction of the OCT measuring beam relative to a tip end of the distal end portion. |
| US09913751B2 |
Lens aid and lens aid system and techniques for the insertion and removal of contact and scleral lenses
A lens aid, lens aid system and powered light source combined with a mirror that uses a lens cup of soft pliable material providing an improved visual method including a hands-free or one hand method for the insertion of a contact lens and more preferably a scleral lens into the eye. |
| US09913749B2 |
Devices and methods for vestibular and/or cranial nerve stimulation
An in-ear stimulator for administering thermal stimulation to the ear canal of a subject includes (a) an earpiece configured to be insertable into the ear canal of said subject, the earpiece having an outer surface and an internal cavity formed therein, the internal cavity having an inner surface; and (b) at least one thermoelectric device thermally coupled to the earpiece internal cavity inner surface. |
| US09913748B2 |
Method and apparatus for treatment of erectile dysfunction with extracorporeal shockwaves
A method and device producing extracorporeal shockwaves for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. |
| US09913743B2 |
Methods of implanting a prosthesis and treating an aneurysm
A method of implanting a prosthesis in a patient at a treatment site includes advancing an outer catheter of a prosthesis delivery system in the patient distal to the treatment site. An inner sheath and a curved guidewire lumen of the delivery system are advanced from the outer catheter to the treatment site along a guidewire while the outer catheter remains stationary relative to the patient. Advancing the inner sheath causes rotation of the prosthesis to thereby rotationally align the prosthesis at the treatment site. The inner sheath is retracted to deploy a prosthesis from within the inner sheath and at the treatment site. The delivery system is then retracted from the patient. |